Barboza-Alvarado Press Notes and Quotes

Undefeated super lightweight Arnold Barboza Jr. and Mike Alvarado both held their final press conference before their bout Friday, April 12 at Staples Center as part of the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Anthony Crolla undercard. The entire card will start at 8 p.m. EST and will air on ESPN+ as a one year anniversary of the streaming service.

Barboza, when asked by the media, explained what he sees in taking on Alvarado.

“We know what Mike brings. I think his time has passed. It’s my time now. Friday night, you’re going to see what we’ve been working on. We’re going to showcase our skills.”

When asked about a potential world title shot in the near future should he win, Barboza sated to the media:

“This fight is everything to me. A win over Alvarado will assure me that I belong with the top guys. We’re ready to go on Friday.”
“I’m not getting caught up in the moment. At the end of the day, I’m here for business. We can worry about that after.”

Alvarado has been on the comeback trail and he has rattled off six straight victories since his loss to Brandon Rios to end the trilogy back in 2015. He told the press he is a different man on his comeback to boxing after overcoming some personal issues.

“After God reinvented me and gave me another opportunity {at a} shot at peace, I could’ve never thought {I’d be here}, but being here makes sense. I was born, and I was meant to be here. I’m here, and I’m giving it another shot. I’m going after it.” he said to the media.

He is hoping this win will place in back in the title picture.

“I know getting past Barboza would open the doors up and would catapult me to that next level. I’m excited, and I’m focused, and I’ve been working hard. I had great preparation, so everyone will find out. Friday night.”