Xander Zayas vs. Patrick Teixeira: Youth and Experience Clash at MSG on June 8
Xander Zayas (18-0, 12 KOs) clashes against Patrick Teixeira (34-4, 25 KOs) in a fight that pits youth against experience this Saturday.
The two fighters headline a Top Rank card at Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater in New York City, NY. Fight fans in the United States can catch the action live on ESPN, ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes. Those in the United Kingdom will be able to do so on Sky Sports while Canadian fight fans can catch it on TSN.
Ahead of their June 8 clash, Zayas and Teixeira spoke at a press conference Thursday afternoon. Below is what they had to say.
Xander Zayas and Patrick Teixeira in Battle of Youth vs. Experience
Zayas vs. Teixeira Press Conference Quotes
Zayas
“This is something we’ve worked towards doing,” said Zayas. “I want to give thanks to Top Rank, ESPN, and MSG for giving me this opportunity. Man, I’m 21 years old, and I’m headlining at MSG. It’s something I always dreamed of. I worked hard for it. And now it’s happening.”
“On paper, this is the biggest test of my career. I have to pass it with flying colors. I know that. The team knows that. We’re focused on winning Saturday night and then focusing on everything else.”
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“Somebody is going to have to back down in this fight. And I don’t believe that will be me. I’m ready to go 10 rounds if necessary. I’m willing to go through everything I have to go through to get the victory.”
Teixeira
“A win in this fight can get me back to where I want to be, headlining in big fights,” said Teixeira through an interpreter.
“Obviously, every fight is different. I know that. So, I prepared differently and used different strategies. I just hope to come out with the win.”
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“In reality, I adapt myself to my opponent. I like to apply pressure and come forward, but it all depends on what my opponent does.”
Fight Prediction
Top Rank are confident in the abilities of Zayas, who headlines a card for the first time in his career. On the other hand, Teixeira is a former world champion who has fought the likes of Carlos Adames and Brian Castaño. This experience makes him a valuable opponent for someone like Zayas, who is looking to soon challenge for world titles. If the young Puerto Rican is of the standard many expect, he should be able to defeat the Brazilian. Expect a unanimous decision win for Zayas come Saturday night.
Full Press Conference
For the entire press conference featuring Zayas, Teixeira and some of the undercard fighters, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Top Rank.
Currently writing out of Toronto, Canada, Saadeq first became a boxing fan while living in Doha, Qatar. Looking to become more involved in the sport, he began writing about boxing and has had work published in outlets such as Seconds Out and Boxing Social. He looks forward to continue covering boxing on Big Fight Weekend.
