Dmitry Bivol Is Fed Up With Talking/Maurice Hooker Is Looking for The Knockout

The media gathered on Wednesday afternoon at the Dream Hotel days before undefeated WBA Light Heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol makes his fifth title defense against Joe Smith Jr. at the Turning Stone Resort and Casino on March 9. WBO Super Lightweight titlist Maurice Hooker will also be defending his belt against undefeated challenger Mikkel LesPierre, and Callum Johnson will be taking on Sean Monaghan. In a press conference the fighters discussed their preparations and predictions before the fight.

Dmitry Bivol

“I don’t want to talk too much because I don’t have many jokes. I’m ready to fight. I hope that Joe is ready too and we can make a great fight and don’t miss our fight.”

Joe Smith Jr.

“I’d like to thank Bivol for offering me this opportunity. I put everything I had into this training camp. I worked real hard. I look forward to this Saturday to put on a great show for everyone. This is what every fighter dreams of, having a shot at the world title. This is my shot, and the work has put in over the years and I’m going show that this Saturday.”

Maurice Hooker

“I’m in shape, I know you’re in shape, and I’m looking for the knockout. I’m going to show why I’m the WBO champion. I want to thank everybody. I took the hard way, I’m not giving up yet.”

Mikkel LesPierre

“There’s not much for me to say, I’m ready for this fight. Let’s go to work. I’m not much of a talker, I like all my actions to show and prove. I’m ready, I’ll see you Saturday night.”