Temecula, CA – Pechanga Resort and Casino is known best for their fun and relaxing atmosphere, a perfect retreat when one needs to get away from reality.
That was not the case Thursday in Hummingbird Hall for the final press conference before undefeated Paul “The Punisher” Williams (33-0, 24KOs) defends his WBO welterweight title against Carlos “El Indio” Quintana (24-1, 19KOs) on Saturday, February 9.
The scheduled 12-round world title fight, presented by Goossen Tutor Promotions, will be witnessed by thousands in attendance and millions more watching on HBO’s “Boxing After Dark.”
Tickets priced at $150.-, $100.- and $50.- are on sale and can be purchased at the Pechanga box office. The six bout live event begins at 5:30pm PT. Doors open at 5:00pm. HBO telecast begins at 9:45pm ET/PT.
When Williams, also known as “the most feared fighter in boxing” entered the room he made an immediate impact as he made his way to meet the press.
“I’m prepared to go the full 12 rounds,” a noticably focused Williams said. “I’m not looking for a knockout. Since we are both southpaws, it evens the playing field. There are no advantages now.”
Said Quintana, whose only loss came to fellow Puerto Rican, unbeaten Miguel Cotto, in a thrilling fight for the then-vacant WBA welterweight 140lb. belt on December 2, 2006, “Everybody fears Williams, but I’m not afraid of him. I welcome the opportunity. The fans know that I can fight, I showed that against Cotto.”
“Williams is making a big mistake if he looks past me. I can’t wait until Saturday. I’m coming to win.”