LOS ANGELES — Brandon Figueroa feels like he owes fight fans following his last fight, a
unanimous decision defeat against Stephen Fulton in a WBC featherweight title fight.Figueroa (25-2-1, 19 KOs), a former two-division titleholder, failed to rise to the occasion against Fulton, who was coming off a shaky performance, and lost for a second time by decision against the Philadelphia native.
Figueroa will turn the page on his career July 19 when he takes on
Joet Gonzalez in a 10-round, 128-pound catchweight clash to open the PBC on Prime Video PPV card headlined by
Manny Pacquiao’s comeback fight against Mario Barrios at MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
“If you asked me when I started my career if I ever saw myself fighting on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao, I’d say you’re crazy,” Figueroa said during a recent press conference. “But this was destiny and I’m happy to be on this card with all these other hungry fighters.
“I’m really motivated knowing that I’ll be followed by all these great fighters. I know Joet Gonzalez comes ready, so we’re gonna give fans a great show and let everyone know that this card is stacked.
“I’m coming with everything. I feel like I owe it to the boxing fans after my last performance. This time I’m giving everything I’ve got.”
To prepare for the fight, Figueroa, 28 and native of Weslaco, Texas, has
linked up with new coach Manny Robles and has been training out of the Knockouts Boxing Facility in Los Angeles.
“We’ve been working together the last four weeks. I feel incredible,” said Figueroa. “I’ve been working very hard and I’m proud to be in this position.
“I’m learning every day from Manny Robles. We’re just getting started and finding a groove. I came to work. I know he’ll have me ready in mind, body and spirit to get this win on July 19.
“I’m always down for a fight. Styles make fights and this opener is gonna be amazing. I just can’t wait to get in there.”
Gonzalez (27-4, 15 KOs), a 31-year-old from Glendora, California, is 4-4 in his last eight fights, with the losses coming against former or current titleholders in Luis Alberto Lopez, Isaac Dogboe,
Emanuel Navarrete and Shakur Stevenson.
“I’m very excited for this fight. It’s a blessing. It’s always been a goal of mine to be on a stage like this,” said Gonzalez. “I always train hard and I’m gonna come with everything to get that win on July 19. I’ll be ready.
“I’m looking to make a big statement. I’m coming to get his win. It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m planning to make the most of it.”
Manouk Akopyan is The Ring’s lead writer. Follow him on X and Instagram: @ManoukAkopyan