As fight week begins, Golden Boy Promotions’ Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera is winding down his training camp before he faces Jose Benavidez Jr. on the undercard of the Timothy Bradley vs. Diego Chaves fight on Saturday, Dec. 13 at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas live on HBO World Championship Boxing®.
Take a look below at how Herrera’s training camp has gone and what to expect on Dec. 13 in Las Vegas:
Q: Tell us a little bit about your training camp? Where are you training and with whom? How long have you been training together for this fight?
I’ve been training in Riverside, Calif. at the same gym I trained at for my last fight, Capital Punishment Boxing Club. I’ve been training for about eight weeks and it’s been going great. I sparred today for 12 rounds. Alan Sanchez has been helping out a lot, as well as my brother, Albert. We’ve been switching it up though. My head trainer is Jose Torres and we’ve been putting in a lot of work.
Q: What are your thoughts on your opponent Jose Benavidez Jr.?
He’s an up-and-coming young star. A lot of people are waiting to see if he passes my test. He has some great tools. He uses his height very well and he’s patient too. There’s going to be a lot of new things for him to experience on December 13 though.
Q: How are you preparing in training camp for the style of Benavidez Jr.?
All of my sparring partners have been a similar height as him and some have been heavier too. I’m looking to get inside with a guy that tall and use a lot of head movement and defense. I’ll be pulling out a little bit of everything. There’s only one week left and we’re ready.
Q: You’ve been part of a number of big fights this year, how does that experience help you in this fight?
I’ll be a little more relaxed and more confident, but I’ll still be on my toes. I’m always looking to prove myself. The tougher the guy is, the better fight I have. When the going gets tough is when I come out and do my thing the best.
Q: What motivates you to continue fighting at a high level?
Family, friends and people who love to see good fights and enjoy my style. I just want to give the people the best fight possible every time I step into the ring.
Q: What are your goals for your career if you are able to win this fight?
Getting past Benavidez Jr. will be a tough test, but I’m looking for a bigger name if I walk away with this win. I want someone I can fight for a world title and winning this should put me in line.
Q: What are you holiday plans for 2014?
After I win this fight I’ll be throwing a big New Years Eve bash for my family and friends.
Q: December 13 is a busy night of fights, what about your fight will stand out above the rest?
I’m looking to steal the show. I want to give my all and make sure that people remember my fight. Both of our styles are hungry and aggressive. You’re going to get an action packed fight.
Q: What is your prediction for your fight on Dec. 13? What can fans expect?
If I see an opening I’m going to take it. I’m not looking to go the distance. I’ll be willing to take risks.
