Óscar Valdez (31-2, 23 KOs) and Liam Wilson (13-2, 7 KOs) clash in a bout that could lead either to becoming world champion in a couple of months.
The fight headlines a Top Rank card at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, AZ. ESPN+ are the exclusive broadcaster of the March 29 event for those in the United States. Also featuring just before the main event is a clash for the undisputed minimumweight championship between Seniesa Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs) and Yokasta Valle (30-2, 9 KOs).
Recently, the WBO declared that an interim version of their world title at super featherweight will be on the line for Valdez-Wilson. If reigning champion Emanuel Navarrete wins his lightweight title fight against Denys Berinchyk, he will have 10 days to decide whether he will keep the title or come back down to 130 lbs. Should Navarrete stay at lightweight, the winner of Valdez-Wilson will become a full titlist.
Ahead of their respective clashes on Friday, the fighters spoke at a final press conference. Below is some of what they had to say.
Valdez-Wilson Clash for Interim Title; Estrada-Valle for Undisputed
Óscar Valdez
“I’m going to be ready,” said Valdez. “I was preparing myself for a world championship fight. Then we got the news that it’s now for an Interim title. So, I’m more than excited and prepared, and we’re going to show that.”
“I was taking this fight as seriously as a world championship fight. I know Liam Wilson. He’s a tough fighter. I was there when he fought Emanuel Navarrete, and he sent him to the canvas. So you better believe that I’m coming with everything because I’m expecting that same Liam Wilson.”
Liam Wilson
“Every fight for me now is a world title fight,” said Wilson. “So, I’ve prepared really hard for it. This is my second run at a world title. And I’ve shown in the past that if I can get a second run, I can be very dangerous. I’m very ready for this fight.”
“I’m glad he was there [for my fight against Navarrete]. The whole world saw what happened. I should have already become world champion. This fight between me and Valdez should have already happened. I won the belt that night. It wasn’t awarded to me. But that’s just the way things played out. But, we’re here now and we’re going to settle the score.”
Seniesa Estrada
“This means everything,” said Estrada. “This is something that I have been wanting for a long time. It’s something that my team and I have worked so hard for, so I’m not going to let this moment slip away.”
“For me it’s personal, but I’m still professional. I’m not trying to fight her on stage or anything. We had our back and forth. But the talk is over. It’s time for us to get in there.”
Yokasta Valle
“For me, it would be a dream come true to make history for women, for boxing,” said Valle through an interpreter. “I’m more than enthusiastic for this week, and I’m looking forward to it.”
“On my end, it’s been professional. That’s the way I see it. I’ve trained hard for a great fight. This isn’t personal. I respect her as the champion that she is. And in the ring, we will see who is the real champion.”
Fight Predictions
Of the two fighters, Valdez has a lot more top-level experience. However, Wilson is four inches taller and also possesses a longer reach. The size difference may pose difficulties for Valdez, but expect him to win via stoppage on Friday night.
The clash between Estrada and Valle is one to watch. It pits the two best fighters at that weight class in an undisputed fight. Estrada might just have too much for her opponent despite giving away a few inches in height. Expect “Super Bad” to get the decision.
Óscar Valdez-Liam Wilson Full Press Conference
For the full press conference featuring the fighters and more, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Top Rank.
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