After 18 Years, Marquez Fighting in Mexico City

Less than 24 four hours before the weigh-in, the three-time world champion Juan Manuel Marquez and Sergey Fedchenko were out promoting their champion battle that will take place this Saturday, April 14 in the brand new Arena Ciudad de Mexico. The fight marks the return of Marquez to his hometown after an 18-year absence.

"It's a big responsibility for me to fight in this new arena and to do it after an 18-year absence. My first eight professional fights were here in Mexico City, but I never had a championship fight in Mexico, and I'm really looking forward to Saturday night," said Marquez.

After a satellite television tour with various media outlets from the United States, Marquez was interviewed on national and local shows in Mexico.

"I really want to sell-out the arena, and these promotions are all part of it. I also want all my fans in the United States to see this fight, because it is one of the most important of my career, as I will be seeking my fourth world title in as many divisions," said Marquez.

Fedchenko has also been very happy to be part of the promotion for what will be his first world title fight.

"I had a great time in Mexico City, but my focus has been the fight and winning my first world championship. This fight is huge here in Mexico, and I am glad I am part of it. I know it will be a very tough fight, but I am ready to take the title home," said Fedchenko.

The Marquez-Fedchenko title bout is part of a big championship pay-per-view card that will begin in Las Vegas with three fights, including a lightweight championship fight featuring Brandon Rios and Richard Abril, super lightweights Mike Alvarado and Mauricio Herrera, and lightweights Mercisto Gesta and Oscar Cuero.

The card is produced by Top Rank and it will be distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View.