Heart of the matter…Luis Nery defending WBC silver bantamweight crown this weekend

As part of the card starring by Manny Pacquiao  facing Keith Thurman, Mexican Luis “Pantera”Nery will try to advance to regain  the absolute WBC bantamweight crown.

Nery will be facing the tough Juan Carlos Payano this Saturday night at the MGM Grand of Las Vegas, Nevada.

 This is what the fighters said prior to climbing  into the ring.

LUIS NERY

“I am very honored to be here especially for all of my Mexican fans and all of my fans from around the world. I am very pleased and thankful to be on such a great card with Manny Pacquiao and Keith Thurman.

 “My strength and power comes from my heart. It will all be on display Saturday night.

 “We are going to go straight at Payano. We are going to put the pressure on. We are going to go for the knockout, if it doesn’t come, we had a great camp in Puerto Rico and we are ready for whatever he brings to the table.”

“I Look forward to going after (WBC 118-pound champ) Nordine Oubaali, who has the title I used to hold.

I don’t think Nordine Oubaali fought well at all. He’s a good fighter but I don’t see him doing well in the ring with me. That’s my title and I’m going to win it back, 100 percent. He’s the champion but that’s my title and I’m ready for the opportunity and he’s going to have to step his game up when he gets in the ring with me.”

JUAN CARLOS PAYANO

“My goal is to become champion once again. I am very prepared and have worked extremely hard over the years for this chance.

“This is going to be a great fight for the fans and that’s what I’m all about. I have the skills and the determination to beat any fighter in the division. I must show my improvement on Saturday.

“It is no secret that Nery is a power puncher, but it is not the first power puncher I have fought and it certainly won’t be the last. On Saturday night two warriors are going to get up there but only one is going to walk out victorious. I look forward to being the victorious one.”