Murodjon Akhmadaliev vs. Ricardo Espinoza: Press Conference Quotes and Fight Prediction

Murodjon Akhmadaliev (12-1, 9 KOs) and Ricardo Espinoza (30-4, 25 KOs, 1 NC) will look to get one step closer to challenging for a super bantamweight world title when they eventually clash.

The two men headline a Matchroom Boxing event at the Salle des Étoiles in Monte Carlo, Monaco. Boxing fans around the world can catch the action live on DAZN.

A win for either fighter will award them an interim version of the WBA’s super bantamweight world title. In theory, that should put the victor in line to challenge Naoya Inoue, who currently holds the actual title. Ahead of their December 14 clash, both men spoke at a press conference. Below is some of what they had to say.

Murodjon Akhmadaliev vs. Ricardo Espinoza Press Conference Quotes

Murodjon Akhmadaliev

“Monte Carlo is a very special place, very beautiful,” said Akhmadaliev through an interpreter. “It’s my first time here. But, if we’re talking about the fight, yeah it’s important. But, you know, my camp is done very good. My team is here. I’m ready for this fight and I’ll show everything [that] I should be.”

Ricardo Espinoza

“First of all I want to say thank you to God for the opportunity,” said Espinoza through an interpreter. “For allowing me to come here and when I heard first that this fight was being negotiated, I thought it was fantastic. It felt like all the universes had aligned to enable me to fight on this card. We’ve had a fantastic camp. There’s nothing to complain about. The work is now done and now we’re prepared for whatever comes in the ring, but we’re sure it’ll be a war and we’re gonna give absolutely everything once we get in that ring.” 

Fight Prediction

Akhmadaliev should have the ability to outbox his opponent over 12 rounds. One thing he will have to be wary of, however, is Espinoza’s power. The Mexican will not be an easy fighter to knock out having only been stopped once in the twelfth round in his only stoppage loss, so expect this to go the full distance. Akhmadaliev to win via unanimous decision.

Full Press Conference

For the press conference in its entirety, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Matchroom Boxing.