I knew Avila was going to be a tough, strong opponent. I cracked him a few times early, but he kept bouncing back every time. When I knocked him down, I could tell he wasn't hurt and was impressed by his toughness. He brought out the best in me.
Floyd has showed me that he's set up with real estate, businesses, and investments.
Where I came from, there's not a reason to have a lot of hope. So much trouble, everywhere. But every now and then, someone makes it out and makes it big, and that person has an impact on a lot of other people.
I think a fighter should be ready and able to adapt to anything that is in front of him in the ring.
I'm not somebody that's trying to be somebody else. I'm being myself for the most part and people respect that.
I showed I'm an elite fighter.
I was one of the youngest world champions in boxing. It is not that I was not prepared for it. I was just so young and it happened so quickly. I had to adapt to it. Live up to the hype. It was hard.
I want to build a legacy.
Floyd has done a lot for me financially and has taught me a lot about business. He did great in making money during his career and he tells me a lot of what he's working on.
Growing up in Baltimore, there were a lot of distractions. But I was so into boxing, it was like candy to me.
There are a lot of belts I want to win, not just one.
My family's messed up, for real.
My uncle saw me fight in front of my house and one day he wanted to turn something negative into a positive, so he took me to the gym and I've been there ever since.
I work my angles and things like that.
I'm willing to fight anybody.
I am aware of what my opponent Avila brings and the experience he has. He's tough, throws hard shots and is a good counterpuncher.
It's not a game. You can't play boxing.
I traveled when I was super young, so my mindset was never like a typical 8-year-old.
I feel comfortable at both weights. I feel I could fight at 130 or 135.
A lot of fighters get frustrated when they're not active.
