Abner Mares on fighting his teammate

Exclusive Interview by Marc Anthony

“I just try to stay with the people that have been with me since day one with my ups and downs: Which is my family, my daughter, my wife, my mom and dad. I listen and I thank them for everything they say and how they see me. I see that as an encouragement to train hard and become someone in this sport.” -Abner Mares


Abner Mares, 21-0-1, 13 KO’s, is under the banner of Espinoza Boxing Club, training side by side with the likes of Israel Vazquez and Yonnhy Perez.
On September 7th, 2007, Abner won the WBO NABO Bantamweight title and is a two time defending champion. He is also a former Olympian for the 2004 games, a Silver Medalist at the 2004 World Junior Championships, Silver Medalist at the 2003 Pan American Games, Gold Medalist at the 2002 Central American & Caribbean Games, and a Gold Medalist at the 2002 World Cadet Championship.
As a Golden Boy Promotions rising star, Abner Mares comes with a victory this December 11th over Vic Darchinyan, earning him the IBO & WBC Silver Bantamweight Titles and a final spot in the prestigious Showtime Bantamweight tournament. He is set to face Joseph Agbeko at the finals.


MA: What were your feelings in fighting against Yonnhy Perez, your teammate, and friend?
When I first fought him, it was really hard. It was not easy because prior to the fight we lived under the same roof for about two years. We are teammates and under the same banner. It was just really hard. I know his family…he knows my family, but again he knows that this is our job and I know that this is what we do. Once we stepped in the ring, I think we just forgot our friendship and just got back to business.


MA: How do you see Yonnhy Perez vs. Vic Darchinyan playing out?
I see that fight really good for both of them. It’s a tough fight. Yonnhy is a fighter that doesn’t like moving backwards and again he knows Darchinyan is a type of fighter that pushes you. But again, I see Yonnhy pushing Vic back too. It’s going play off as whoever has the best game plan going into the ring. But I just see that is a tough fight for both of them.




continued