Three-time world heavyweight title challenger Chris Arreola wants to leave a lasting impression on boxing fans when he meets former unified champion Andy Ruiz in an all Mexican-American rumble on Fox Sports PBC Pay-Per-View at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on May 1.
Having been absent from a boxing ring since a rousing 12-round tussle with Adam Kownacki in August 2019, more cynical observers might say Arreola is being coaxed out of semi-retirement by a pay check, but the Californian insists that is not the case.
Arreola (38-6-1, 33 KOs and 2 NC) says he wants to spark a war that will live long in the memory.
“This one is going to be a barnburner for sure,” said Arreola. “This fight is important for my legacy. I want to make the fans happy they bought this fight. I don’t fight for paychecks. I’m a fighter for the fans. So I hope they enjoy this fight and buy this pay-per-view.
“I love what I do. I’m a fortunate person to have been a fighter since a young age. I bleed boxing. I put my whole self out there every time I fight. I know that I owe it to the fans to give them a great fight.
“I was able to keep up the pace against Kownacki because I did everything I had to do in the gym. I could have given three more rounds at the end of that fight too. The fight is always won in the gym and we put all of the work in to win that fight. I thought I won that fight. Despite not getting the decision, it was a fun fight for me.
“I feel great. I’ve been working hard for months. I know that I have to make this a great fight for the fans and for myself. I know how crucial this fight is for my career. I don’t pay attention to the odds. If people want to make me the underdog, I’m comfortable with that. I’ve been an underdog my whole life.”
Features images: Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions