Super welterweight world champion Erislandy Lara sets off the fight weekend with his world title defense against former world champion Yuri Foreman tonight in the main event of the Premier Boxing Champions card.
The Cuban is on a four-fight win streak and has been on a tear since 2014. His tenacious style of fighting has left no doubt that he is currently one of the best light middleweights in the game with a style reminiscent of Pernell Sweet Pea Whitaker.
The divisions current champions include brothers Jermall Charlo with the WBC and IBF belts respectively and Canelo Alvarez with the WBO title.
“The division, in my opinion, is the most talented division in boxing, said Lara during training camp. Everyone at the top is looking to cement their legacy in boxing history and everyone is spectacular. In the future, we will all have to face each other at some point. So, expect some unification bout to be presented, and may the best man rise to the top. I know I’m ready to fight everyone, but first I must get past Foreman.”
His opponent, Yuri Foreman, however, is no soft touch. The former WBA light middleweight titleholder is currently on a six-fight win streak and lost his belt to the great Miguel Cotto. He went 27-0-1 into his first title match and won that fight against Daniel Hardy handily to secure the unanimous decision victory. However, even though nerves shouldnt be an issue for Foreman in this championship fight, his last one was in 2009.
Lara has a great track record in the Hialeah Park Racing & Casino in the Miami venue as well, with his last fight there resulting in a third round TKO over Jan Zaveck.
“My last fight here was amazing and the fan support was unbelievable, said Lara at the last press conference. I got the knockout and I’m hoping to do the same again. If I see my opponent hurt, I’ll be looking to take him out. I love my Cuban countrymen and all their support, as well as my American fans. Miami is like a second home to me and I can’t wait to give the fans a great show.”
Additionally, former world champion Anthony Dirrell and Hungary’s Norbert Nemesapati will meet in a 10-round super middleweight bout.
Catch all the action tonight from the Hialeah Park Racing & Casino live on Spike at 9pm EST / 6pm PST.
