Marcos Hernandez knows a good opportunity when he sees one.
“Madman” has lost two of his last three fights – a ninth-round TKO against Jeison Rosario and unanimous decision against Kevin Newman II – but he believes he has what takes to be a contender. He’ll have a chance to demonstrate that when he faces James Kirkland in a 10-round middleweight bout Saturday in Oxon Hill, Maryland on Fox Sports 1.
“I’ve had a great camp and for the first time in my career I’ve added a strength and conditioning coach,” Hernandez said. “I’m constantly in the gym with [trainer] Henry Ramirez working hard every single day. I was super focused going into this camp, since I know this is a major opportunity to get me back in line for a world title shot. I know I have to take this seriously.
“Some people may have doubted me based on past fights, but that is only fueling my motivation. I miss my family a lot, but I know to be great, I have to do what it takes to go to the next level.”
Hernandez (14-3-1, 3 KOs) has faced mostly second-tier opposition but does have two fights against Rosario, who stopped Julian Williams to win a junior middleweight title in January.
The first meeting, a six-round middleweight fight, ended in a split draw. That might provide a hint of what the product of Fresno, California is capable of.
Hernandez, also known as Mark Anthony Hernandez, respects the punching power of the 35-year-old Kirkland (34-2, 30 KOs) but he believes he’s the more complete fighter.
“James Kirkland is a notorious fighter known for his power, but his time has come and gone,” Hernandez said. “This is a great opportunity for me since Kirkland is a popular fighter. And when I beat him, people will take notice.
“I watched Kirkland growing up and I have studied his mistakes. Kirkland only has one style, but I have many. This will be a great fight for the fans because both of us have our backs against the wall and must win.”
And if Hernandez wins?
“When I win, I want to get back in there with unified champion Jeison Rosario,” said Hernandez. “I have fought Rosario twice already, and the first time was a draw. I have unfinished business with him. I need to make a big statement and have a highlight-reel performance this Saturday night.
“I believe I can fight him this year. The fight would be a trilogy, and who doesn’t like trilogies in boxing?”