Oscar Collazo vs. Neider Valdez press conference quotes and fight prediction

Oscar Collazo (14-0, 11 KOs) will soon put his WBO and WBA minimumweight world titles at stake against Neider Valdez (15-3-3, 12 KOs).

Their bout headlines a Golden Boy Promotions card – done in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions – at the Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, CA. Fight fans around the world will be able to catch the action live on DAZN. Joey Canoy (25-5-2, 15 KOs, 1 NC) was originally set to face Collazo. However, visa-related issues forced Canoy to withdraw. A new opponent was sought and Valdez stepped in as a result.

Collazo spoke at a press conference ahead of their June 20 clash. Below is some of what he had to say.

Oscar Collazo vs. Neider Valdez press conference quotes

Oscar Collazo

“Not really [stressed] because I don’t let that affect me,” said Collazo of the opponent switch. “Golden Boy did the work. They told me to stay relaxed. I did my job, made weight, and stayed relaxed.”

“When we’re in camp, we don’t exactly train for that fighter. We spar lefties, we spar righties, we spar aggressive fighters, we fight, we spar people in the back foot. So things like this don’t bother me. We could do the same strategy to each fighter. Give me one or two rounds, and I got them.”

Neider Valdez

Note: Valdez was not present at the conference. Below is what he said in a press release.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank God, Golden Boy, Cotto Promotions, and my team for this incredible opportunity,” said Valdez. “When I received the phone call, I couldn’t believe it, but without hesitation, I accepted the challenge. I stay in the gym and work hard every day, always waiting for an opportunity like this. I know who Oscar Collazo is – he is the best fighter in his division today, and I have looked up to him for a long time. It is a great honor to share the ring with him on such a big stage. I am ready to deliver the performance of my life and take full advantage of this incredible opportunity.”

Fight prediction

Valdez is stepping in on incredibly short notice. He is also 2-2-1 in his last five fights which includes a draw against a fighter who was 4-4 at the time (the bout in question took place on May 30 of this year). It is hard to see how he could defeat someone like Collazo, a current unified world champion. Expect the Puerto Rican to take some time to figure out what he is dealing with and then get the stoppage within five rounds.

Full press conference

For the press conference in its entirety, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Golden Boy Promotions.

Featured Image Credit

Golden Boy Promotions/Cris Esqueda