Oklahoma City's Saucedo looking for hometown, world title win against Hooker

On November 16, live from the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, undefeated contender Alex Saucedo, (28-0, 18 KO’s), will challenge champion Maurice Hooker (24-0-3 16 KO’s) for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) world super lightweight title, live on ESPN.

Hooker is no stranger to fighting on the road as he won the title by upsetting champion Terry Flanagan this past June in Flanagan’s hometown of Manchester, England when he beat the favoured champion by a split decision.

And, now in his first title defence, he will saunter into Saucedo’s backyard to defend his title.

Undefeated, Mexico-born, Oklahoma City-residing Saucedo, (28-0, 18 KO’s), became the mandatory challenger for Hooker when he defeated rugged, Australian Leonardo Zappavigna by TKO 7 this past June in a “Fight of the Year” candidate.

In recent interviews, both fighters made it clear that they were very excited to face each other.

Saucedo, undefeated in 7 years as a pro, will be looking to capture a world title in front of his hometown. Meanwhile Dallas, Texas native Hooker is looking to show that he can clock into work anywhere and walk out a champion. 

"I’m very excited to defend my world title on a national platform and show the world what I bring to the ring," Hooker said. "I feel like this is my time. I’m hungry, I’ve been working hard and I’m ready to make Alex Saucedo my next victim”, he said. "On November 16, I’m turning his dream into a nightmare," Hooker continued.

And, while Saucedo is excited about his world title opportunity, he is even more excited with the opportunity to win it at home.

"I am very excited for this huge opportunity at home," Saucedo said. "It doesn’t get better than fighting for the title in front of the home crowd. It’s a blessing”, he said.

“There’s a big rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma, so I know the Chesapeake Energy Arena is going to be packed. I want that title around my waist and to represent Oklahoma City with pride. Only one world champion (former lightweight champion Sean O’Grady) has come from my city. I am going to be the second”, said Saucedo.

But, don’t try telling that to road warrior, and champion, Hooker who relishes the opportunity to pull off another upset in his opponent’s backyard.

"He will find out why I am world champion”, said Hooker, “I don’t care where I fight. The ring is my home. I’m gonna punch him in the mouth, Mexican style."