Final press conference: Donaire vs. Santiago and Cruz vs. Cabrera

Filipino Nonito Donaire will face Mexican Alexandro Santiago for the vacant World Boxing Council bantamweight title, this Saturday, on the undercard of Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Donaire vs. Santiago was originally scheduled for July 15, but it was moved to this date.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to become a world champion once again in what is already a historic night for boxing,” Donaire said, adding: “I’m grateful to my team for this opportunity and I’m going to do everything I can to make the most of it.”

From Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, Santiago (27-3-5, 14 KOs) will challenge for a bantamweight crown for the first time in his career, coming into this fight riding a three-fight winning streak.

“I’ve been waiting five years for this world title opportunity, so I’m more than ready for this fight,” Santiago said. “I am focused and my goal remains the same, to become champion.”

In another attractive fight, the World Boxing Council Silver Lightweight champion, Mexican Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, will face the undefeated Giovanni Cabrera.

The 25-year-old “Pitbull” with a record of 24-2-1, including 17 knockouts, has achieved important victories since he lost a decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021.

“I can’t wait to be back in the ring on Saturday,” Cruz said. “It has always been a dream to fight in Las Vegas, where so many Mexican legends like Julio César Chávez, Salvador Sánchez and Erik Morales have fought before. Now is my chance and I will not let the fans down. As always, I’m going for the knockout!”

Originally from Seattle and now a resident of Chicago, Cabrera (21-0, 7 KOs) steps into the ring following an impressive victory over Gabriel Flores Jr. in July of last year.

“It hasn’t been an easy road up to this point, and I know I have to beat Pitbull Cruz to continue my path to the world title,” Cabrera said. “This is a tough fight, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I expect a war. May the best fighter win this July 29.”

The card is organized by Premier Boxing Champions and will be televised by Showtime PPV and ESPN Latin America.