Lightweight contender Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz 21-1-1 (15) will be looking to press his claims for a world title shot with a victory over former world champion Francisco ‘El Bandido’ Vargas 27-2-2 (19) in their 10-round bout at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas on Saturday night.
The fight will take place on the undercard of the WBC middleweight world title fight between champion Jermall Charlo 31-0 (22) and challenger Juan Macias Montiel 22-4-2 (22).
“I had a great two and a half months of training and I’m ready for Saturday night,” The 23-year-old Mexican said. “Vargas has a similar style to mine. We both like to stand in front of our opponent, so it’s going to be a great fight.
“I’m planning to put Mexico on top once again. ‘Pitbull’ Cruz is going to show up like I always do. This is going to be a war.
“I plan to deliver a wonderful gift for all of the fans in Houston. Just like I delivered in San Antonio two fights ago, I’m going to show everyone that same power.
“I’m coming to win and I’m ready to have my hand raised. I’m not looking past Vargas, but I’ll be ready for whoever is next after I win.”
Mexican Vargas, 36, engaged in two thrilling battles with Miguel Berchelt 37-2 (33) for the WBC super featherweight title in 2017 and 2019. Although he was stopped both times, the two fights were close and provided the fans with plenty of exciting exchanges.
Vargas is anticipating a similar style of fight this weekend.
“I’m very motivated and I can’t wait for Saturday night. I had a great training camp and I know that this is going to be an action-packed fight for the fans,” he said.
“We both want to win for our country. Everyone knows what kind of fight this is going to be. Cruz is a strong fighter who comes forward, so I’d say our styles are definitely similar.
“There’s not much that needs to be said. People might think I don’t have anything left, but I’m going to prove on Saturday night that there’s plenty in the tank. Everyone is going to see on June 19.
“This is going to be a very entertaining fight. It definitely could steal the night. It’s shaping up to be that type of fight.
“When you’ve got two Mexican warriors, you can expect another Fight of the Year. Don’t miss it on Saturday.”
