Chad Dawson and Antonio DeMarco, joined by their camps and co-promoters Dan Goossen and Gary Shaw, held the final press conference for their respective bouts at "Ward vs. Dawson - World Champions - Made In America." Here are their quotes from today's event.
Chad Dawson:
"Saturday night I will walk out as Super Middleweight Champion of the World. I did everything I said I would to make the weight. Now it's time to fight. Let's go!
"I am an underdog in this fight and I understand that. But I am looking to take my career to the next level just like he (Ward) is."
Dawson Trainer John Scully:
"I believe this fight is comparable to Leonard-Hearns. We have trained for the best, the elite. Anybody that thinks we haven't is sadly mistaken. These are two special fighters and the best man will win."
Dawson (and DeMarco) Promoter Gary Shaw:
"We fought as underdogs with Shane Mosley versus Oscar De La Hoya and nobody thought we could win. Can you believe that the 175 lb. champion of the world is a 3-1 underdog? As Shane won that night, the last thing I saw was (Promoter Bob) Arum squawking and squawking and that will be Dan Goossen Saturday night after Chad walks out with the 168 and 175-lb. belts.
"You said we made a mistake? Saturday night we'll find out who made the mistake taking the fight."
Antonio DeMarco:
"I just want to say we are in great shape to leave our heart in the ring and emerge victorious Saturday night. Like I say, I respect all my opponents.
"I have a lot of respect for Molina. It's a privilege to be part of a fight of this magnitude."
"Ward vs. Dawson - World Champions - Made In America''features a 12-round World Championship bout between Super Middleweight World Champion, Andre Ward and Light Heavyweight World Champion, Chad Dawson as well as a co-featured lightweight championship bout between Antonio DeMarco and John Molina Jr. The night of boxing will take place Sept 8 from the Oracle Arena in Oakland, Calif. live on HBO World Championship Boxing® (9:45 p.m., ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).
The event is promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions in association with Antonio Leonard Promotions and SOG Promotions and sponsored by Corona, City of Oakland, Azad Watches, 95.7 The Game and the Oakland Tribune.
Tickets priced at $300, $200, $100, $75, $50 and $25 (plus fees) are available for purchase at the Oracle Arena box office or by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000 or online at ticketmaster.com.
