Lara Wants to Leave an Impression Friday Night
To list all of Cuban southpaw Erislandy Lara’s amateur accomplishments would take several minutes. He’s been an elite fighter for many years. And although some amateur stars don’t translate well into professionals, Lara (15-0, 10 KOs) is currently on a four-fight first-round knockout streak against intermediate-level opposition.
Some in boxing are starting to cite Lara as a worthy challenger to fighters such as Miguel Cotto and Sergio Martinez — which is why in his 10-round main event this Friday, March 25, on ESPN2’s Friday Night Fights broadcast from The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, he must not only win, but continue to impress.
Lara will face Chicago’s Carlos Molina, a former NABO Champion widely regarded as having dealt Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. his first professional loss (except on the scorecards).
Through a translator, he spoke about his impending run at stardom and the pressures he faces.
What do you know about Carlos Molina?
I know he is a good boxer and a former world contender who was ranked in the top ten in the world. He’s very good and he’s beaten some very good fighters.
Should we expect your fifth consecutive first-round knockout?
I never look for a KO, but if it come it comes, I’ll take it.
Teddy Atlas told you after one of your recent fights that you are ready for Miguel Cotto… Are you?
Without a doubt, I’m the best junior middleweight in the world and I’d love to fight all the top guys, including Sergio Martinez. I think I have the style to get to that guy. At 154, I will fight him any time.
Have there been any talks between you and (WBA Champ) Austin Trout’s camp? How long until we see you in a world title fight?

On fight night, doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the first fight beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets for “Fight Night at The Cosmopolitan” are priced at $50.00, $75.00 and $250.00 for VIP seats, which include access to a VIP terrace, comfortable couch seating and an open bar and are available for purchase at www.cosmpolitanlasvegas.com.
About The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas:
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a unique luxury resort offering a decidedly different perspective, situated in the heart of The Strip. The resort’s uniquely vertical multi-tower design offers spectacular views of the vibrant city. The new 2,995-room resort features oversized, residential-style living spaces with expansive, one-of-a-kind private terraces. The Cosmopolitan’s luxurious resort amenities include a 100,000-square-foot casino; Sahra Spa & Hammam; three unique pool experiences at The Pool District; Marquee Nightclub & Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan, a multi-level integrated nightclub; and 150,000 square feet of state-of-the-art convention and meeting space. An eclectic lineup of new-to-market retailers include AllSaints Spitalfields, Beckley, CRSVR Sneaker Boutique, DNA2050, Droog, Molly Brown’s Swimwear, Retrospecs & Co, Skins 6|2 Cosmetics and STITCHED. Signature restaurants include Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill by restaurateurs Bruce and Eric Bromberg; Comme Ça by Los Angeles Chef David Myers; Estiatorio Milos, by international restaurateur Costas Spiliadis; Holsteins from Block 16 Hospitality; Jaleo and China Poblano restaurants by acclaimed Chef José Andrés; Scarpetta and D.O.C.G. by award-winning Chef Scott Conant; and popular steakhouse STK from The One Group.
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