DARCHINYAN puts on brutal beating, ARCE out of hospital

Yesterday's quotes:

VIC DARCHINYAN

“I am anxious, focused and confident. My weight is great. I am ready to go.

“I expect this is going to be a good fight. I’m not looking to knock him out in the first round. He is a tough fighter and I know he is here to give me a tough fight. So this might go a couple rounds.

“But once I hit him – and before he realizes what hit him – the fight will be over.

“I got a lot of attention when I was undefeated, but the recognition is more now that I beat Mijares like a baby. Being undisputed champion means more.

“I know I have a target on my back and that everyone will be gunning for me. That’s why I am not overlooking any opponent, including Arce.

“Arce has done a lot of talking, but I like it when they talk and think they are going to beat me. That way, when it is over, I can remind them of what they said while I am holding the belts.

“I’ve been chasing, following this guy around Mexico for three years. I can’t wait for Saturday.”


JORGE ARCE

“Darchinyan’s greatest strength is his mouth. I am not intimidated by the devil; why would I be intimidated by him? His biggest weakness is his chin. When he gets hit flush, he doesn’t get up.

“I am ready for anything he has to offer and looking forward to testing him and finding out about his will to win. I know what my will to win is. But we’ll find Saturday about his.

“He hasn’t been fighting really elite Mexican fighters and I have trained for this fight like I never have before. I’ve had a great camp. I’ve been chopping trees and swimming to improve my strength. I’ve sparred with southpaws for the first time. Lefties have never given me a problem.

“People think because I lost to Mijares and Darchinyan beat Mijares that Darchinyan will automatically win our fight. But that’s not how it works. It is just talk. It is neither here nor there. Styles make fights. You’ll see after I nail him what I am saying.

“I am very happy and excited to be here and I am looking forward to fighting in Anaheim again and showing SHOWTIME that I deserve to be on their network. I appreciate this opportunity.

“I am not leaving that ring without the three belts. I am smarter than him.”



Today is the day of the final press conference, and they will now stand face to face, the moment we've been waiting for. Can't wait to see the staredown.