Arnold Barboza Jr. (27-0) may not win the title fight he wanted, but he is next to former two-division champion Jose Pedraza (29-4-1). I am very grateful for the fight.
The match will take place on February 3 at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona. This showdown will be televised by ESPN along with the main his event pitting Emmanuel Navarrete and Liam Wilson for his vacant WBO super featherweight title.
“Oh, this is the toughest fight I’ve ever had. I have nothing but respect for Pedraza. I’m thrilled to show what I’m capable of and will be making a statement on February 3rd,” Barbosa said. told BoxingScene.com.
A win will push Barbosa higher up the leaderboards. Currently, he is ranked in the top 15 by WBC, WBO and IBF.
He believes a win will lead to the title, but insists he doesn’t see beyond Pedraza.
“I believe so, but I am not worried at the moment.
The 31-year-old from Southern California doesn’t mind a holiday workout this risky.
“It’s not difficult at all. I don’t care, especially since I know how big the fight is. Sport takes sacrifices and fans can expect exciting fights again,” said Barbosa.
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