“BARBY” VOWS TO MAKE HISTORY IN ZOCALO WINNING THIRD WBC TITLE

Mariana “Barby” Juarez is pledging to make her hosts of Mexican fans proud by doing them proud by winning the WBC bantamweight crown to add to the couple of others she’s raised in two other weight categories.

At the weight ceremony in the Zocalo, Mariana was 52.50kg. While champion Catherine Phiri fromZambia was a kilo lighter.

Mariana thanked the World Boxing Council for this opportunity and Mexico City Mayor Miguel Angel Mancera for the magnificent stage, plus backdrop. She promised this cherished belt will have a new home in Mexico City.

Catherine said she is enjoying her time in Mexico City, gaining applause for politely and smilingly thanking Mexico for kind and welcoming hospitality. She in her turn said it’ll be a most interesting fight.

Marco Antonio Periban is Mariana’s boyfriend. He’s also a World class super middleweight, who’ll be in her corner offering shrewd and sage advice. Marco says: “I’ll be advising Mariana to move, use distance and take advantage of her longer reach.

“Mariana has fought thirty nine more times than Catherine and this is the most important point. She needs to draw upon and use this experience. She also needs to work, enjoy and savor such a unique experience. I think she’s going to win on points.”