Panamanian boxing star Rafael Pedroza and San Antonio’s Ramon Cardenas successfully met their weight requirements on Thursday, prepping for their 10-round super bantamweight fight on SHOBOX: The New Generation. This crucial fight will be aired live on SHOWTIME at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT this Friday, September 15, from the Boeing Center at Tech Port, San Antonio, Texas.
The thrilling triple-fight event showcases participants boasting an impressive combined record of 88-2-2 and 54 knockouts, all set to demonstrate their skills against tough opponents. The secondary main fight showcases the unbeaten powerhouse from Argentina, Mirco Cuello. He’s back in the U.S., locking horns with undefeated Rudy Garcia of Los Angeles. To kick start the event, Freudis Rojas, having a clean slate in knockouts and having recently debuted on SHOWTIME this past July, will take on Californian Saul Bustos in an eight-round welterweight fight.
RAFAEL PEDROZA
“Ramon Cardenas is undeniably skilled, but I’ve dedicatedly trained for this fight. My camp was intensive and this is a crucial win for me. Every fight I enter, I grow stronger both mentally and physically. Though this is another hurdle, I’m geared up.
I aim to earn public admiration. My goal is to be known as a performer that crowds eagerly await and clamor for in the US. This fight is an opportunity for me to truly shine.
Speaking of strategy, I’m adaptive. I aim to conclude the fight early, without leaning on judges. Depending on Cardenas’ moves, I’ll either use technique or aggression. Given my height and reach advantage, I’m confident about taking him off his strategy. One of my idols from Panama, Roberto Duran, has often mentored me, emphasizing discipline and determination.
Cardenas might be good, but the ring will reveal who’s better.”
RAMON CARDENAS
“San Antonio has witnessed my fights, but this is the grandest. It’s hard to pin myself as either the favorite or the underdog. While Pedroza may have a decent jab, I rely on my coaches to study him.
Having Adam Lopez, a local legend, is an advantage. His experiences on SHOBOX have been insightful. Despite not having a high KO ratio, fans will witness my power.”
MIRCO CUELLO
“My fighting style embodies the typical Argentinian aggression. Rudy Garcia is an active fighter with a strong left. Yet, my global experience, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, has prepared me for varied challenges.
Previously, I started my professional journey in the US in 2020. Now, I’m more focused and professional. Competing on SHOWTIME has always been a dream, especially after watching fighters like Marcos Maidana.”
RUDY GARCIA
“Aggressive opponents often bring out the best in me. I pride myself on being versatile, balancing aggressive and technical skills. I can either pressure my opponent or tactically fight on the ropes.
For my upcoming fight, the focus has been on discipline and a strong game plan. Stamina is on my side, and I am ready to endure. Juan Manuel Marquez’s technical aggression has always been my inspiration. Interestingly, I harbor a passion for history and aspire to teach or perhaps join law enforcement.”
FREUDIS ROJAS
“Recent trainings emphasized versatility. Whether it’s fighting with a backstep, lateral movement, or straightforward boxing, I’m prepared. The aim is to surprise the audience, not sticking to just my usual style.
Depending on the opponent’s strategy, I’ve got a few aces up my sleeve. Knockouts are not my primary focus, but I won’t shy away if the opportunity arises. My experience on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP was surreal, and facing a renowned coach like Freddie Roach is genuinely exciting.”
SAUL BUSTOS
“While Rojas might utilize his height, I’m unphased. Despite his record, I feel ready to tackle this challenge. My preparations involved sparring with taller opponents.
Freddie Roach has been mentoring me since August 2021, but this will be our debut together. As for Rojas’ strength, I’ll only believe it when I experience it. My style is more strategic than aggressive, yet I don’t hesitate to elevate the action.”