ARTHUR ABRAHAM has described his WBO world super-middleweight title defence against Gilberto Ramirez on the Manny Pacquiao v Tim Bradley undercard on April 9 as a ‘dream come true.’
The 35-year-old predominantly operates in Germany and his last outing in America resulted in a wide decision loss to Andre Ward in 2011.
Now, he is relishing his opportunity on this pay-per-view show in Las Vegas, topped by Pacquiao’s alleged swansong.
“This fight is a dream come true for me,” he said.
“I fought in Hollywood, Florida vs. Edison Miranda, against Andre Dirrell in Detroit and vs. Andre Ward in Carson, California. But the flair of a big-time event was missing.
“I was at Manny’s fight vs. Shane Mosley at the MGM Grand in 2011 and the atmosphere captured my imagination. Afterwards, it was my wish to one day step into this very ring and on April 9 I will finally get the chance to share the spotlight with the ‘Pac-Man.'”
Unbeaten Ramirez, 24, is vying to become the first Mexican to win a world title at super-middleweight and while he lacks a standout win on his CV, Abraham is preparing for a long night.
“I do not take a win that night for granted, as Gilberto Ramirez is a young upcoming boxer from Mexico, one of the greatest fighting countries.
“He wants to write history by becoming the first Mexican to win a world championship at super middleweight. But myself being an Armenian, living and fighting out of Germany, I have two values to fight for: pride and honor.
“I will go into this fight with the following words on my mind: “Mejor morir de pie que vivir arrodillado!” This is going to be my greatest victory.”
Ramirez obviously has other plans.
“This is the fight of my life, this is what I worked so hard to get, the opportunity to fight for a world title,” he said.
“Obviously we know what we’re up against, he’s a great fighter who hasn’t lost since 2013. But this is what I’ve dream of, what I’ve worked for. We’re going to win.
“Nobody’s going to be disappointed, I want to win that title for Mexico and make it an historic night. I’m enjoying this training camp like never before and I’m going to enjoy this fight as I win that title.”
