Yordenis Ugas says he knew that his career was about to change for the better after beating Jamal James six years ago.
The Cuban (27-4, 12 KOs) took the unbeaten record of James that night at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino. Since then, Ugas has only lost once in 12 fights, and that defeat was a narrow one to Shawn Porter for the WBC welterweight title.
The 35-year-old is now just one win away from becoming the unified champion at 147lbs and the holder of three titles. In his way is the unbeaten American Errol Spence Jr (27-0, 21 KOs). The two fighters clash on April 16 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Speaking at an open workout yesterday in Las Vegas, Ugas said: “I’m happy to be fighting in Spence’s backyard, because they have great fans down there in Texas. It just adds extra motivation.
“I was out of the ring for a long time, but when I came back and gave Jamal James the first loss of his career, I knew that I would be coming for big things. Everything changed for me that night and it’s all led up to this.”
Last year proved to be the biggest in Ugas’ career. Despite having only fought once the sole victory would be a life changing one. The date of August 21, 2021, will go down in boxing history as it would be the last time fans watched Manny Pacquiao fight. Ugas was the man responsible having defeated the Filipino phenom to become WBA welterweight champion.
“The Pacquiao fight was a great night for me. After that fight my life changed in even more ways. But I’ve always kept myself humble. I showed everyone who the WBA champion was. I have my eye on continuing to make history.”
Ugas also discussed his tag as underdog going into the April 16 unification against Spence Jr.
“Being an underdog means nothing to me. I was the underdog against Pacquiao and now again against Spence. I’ve always been the underdog and it doesn’t faze me.
“It’s an honour to be in the ring with Errol Spence Jr. We’re fighting for three belts, but even more important is fighting for honour and respect.
“Fans can expect me to fight like a warrior. I’m going to take all of my hard work into the ring on April 16.”