Four of the top super middleweights in the world shared a stage Thursday afternoon as Badou Jack, Lucian Bute, James DeGale and Rogelio Medina participated in the final press conference for their fights this Saturday, April 30 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING from the DC Armory in Washington, D.C.
Here is what Lucian Bute had to say Thursday:
LUCIAN BUTE
"I'm thankful for this big opportunity to fight for the WBC title. My training camp was very good. I feel stronger. It's two days until the big stage.
"I worked very hard for this opportunity. To be a two-time champion is a dream. On Saturday night you will see a new champion.
"I feel great. The pressure is not on my shoulders now. I'm not the champion, I'm the outsider. Badou is the champion and I think the pressure is on him. I came to Washington D.C. to perform, give the fans a good show Saturday night and the chance to become a champion for the second time
"I put on a good show against DeGale and that's what led to this shot. I'm very blessed to be in this fight for a world title.
"Badou is a good fighter. He has a good background in amateur boxing, he's a world champion, but he has nothing special. He does everything good but not exceptionally. I have more experience, more speed and I'm a southpaw. I think the advantage is on my side.
"I never considered retiring but there were three years where I had some physical and psychological obstacles. Now I'm back to being in big fights and I'm looking forward to taking Badou Jack's belt.
"This is going to be a spectacular fight. I want to look good in there and leave no doubt. I'm more aggressive than I ever have been and that will make it a great fight. I'm here to stop Badou Jack."
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Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIMEĆ¢ and features the WBC champion Jack battling the former champion Bute, while the IBF titleholder DeGale takes on the top rated contender Medina. The winners of these fights have agreed to meet in a world title unification later this year.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.