The opening half of Saturday’s world championship doubleheader will feature the SHOWTIME and United States debuts of Panama’s Anselmo “Chemito” Moreno (31-1-1, 11 KO’s),  who will defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) Bantamweight Super Championship againstTwo-Division World Champion Vic “The Raging Bull” Darchinyan (37-3-1, 27 KO’s).

ANSELMO MORENO

“I am happy to be fighting in the United States.  It was always a dream to fight here for the biggest promoter in the world.

“I’m looking forward to showing my intelligence and style of boxing to the fans at the arena and watching on television.

“I’m here to make a name for myself and to make a huge statement.”

VIC DARCHINYAN

“I want to thank everybody who helped get me on this card, including my promoter, Gary Shaw, and it is always nice to be back on SHOWTIME again.

“Moreno doesn’t come to make exciting fights.  He likes to move and grab and just wants to do enough to win a round.  He’s scared to get hit.  I’m going to do what I do best and show my skills and fight smart, but I’m not going to mess around.  I’ll jump on him and pressure him like no one he’s ever fought before and I’m going to try and knock him out in the first round.

“I will destroy him.  I can’t see this fight going the distance.  You’ll like what you see.  I’m here to bring the excitement.

“Mares and Agbeko say they are moving up to 122 after this fight.  After this fight, I would love to fight Mares at 122.’’