Badou Jack vs. Noel Mikaelian 2 quotes and fight prediction

Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) will soon defend his WBC cruiserweight world title against Noel Mikaelian (27-3, 12 KOs) in a rematch.

Their bout headlines a Bash Boxing card at the Ace*Mission Studios in Los Angeles, CA. Fight fans in the United States can catch the action live as a pay-per-view (PPV) through Integrated Sports Media, who will distribute it via all major cable outlets, DIRECTV, and DISH, as well as digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, PPV.com, TrillerTV, and Fubo. The rest of the world will be able to do so through PPV.com.

Both men made statements at an open workout held earlier this week. Below is some of what they had to say ahead of their Dec. 13 rematch.

Badou Jack vs. Noel Mikaelian 2 quotes

Badou Jack

“It’s good to be back in the States,” said Jack. “My last five fights have been overseas, so it’s been a long time coming. I’m blessed. I have a great team. I believe in God. I work hard, and this is what happens. I don’t have to cut that much weight anymore. The plan was to move up to cruiserweight a long time ago, but everything happens for a reason.”

“I’m not looking to leave it to the judges on Saturday.”

Noel Mikaelian

“It’s great to be in LA,” said Mikaelian. “I love the vibe here. It’s a great energy and I’m looking forward to Saturday. I need to correct the decision that was made last May. This time I am much more prepared. They changed the last fight to five in the morning. This time everything is done professionally. Championing Mental Health [one of the organizers] did a great job. It’s going to be an amazing show. I have a great team behind me and strong support. I’m going to get the W.”

Fight prediction

Jack was initially scheduled to fight Ryan Rozicki back in May. Mikaelian stepped in on less than a month’s notice when the Canadian suffered an injury and withdrew from the bout. Despite that, the pair fought to a majority draw on the undercard of Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez vs. William Scull. The additional time to prepare should benefit Mikaelian. Jack is 42 and had his struggles when the two met earlier this year. Mikaelian should be able to outbox the reigning champion and get the unanimous decision win this time.

Big Fight Weekend’s interviews with Badou Jack and Noel Mikaelian

Big Fight Weekend was able to speak with both fighters before they meet in the ring yet again. Click here to read our interview with Jack and click here for the one we did with Mikaelian.