Undefeated middleweight Jaime Munguia (38-0, 30 KOs) and D’Mitrus “Big Meech” Ballard (21-0-1, 13 KOs) faced off at the final press conference for Saturday’s DAZN-streamed fight at the iconic Plaza Monumental de Playas in Tijuana. Both fighters were civil and respectful.

JAIME MUNGUIA

“I want to thank everyone who came out to support me. I am happy to be here, in my hometown, with all the people who have help me grow into the athlete that I am today.

“Being here has motivated to work harder and to get better. Coming home after winning a world title is a blessing and I am honored to be back in Tijuana.

“I also want to thank the press for all their support throughout my whole career. I also want to thank Oscar, Fernando, Zanfer and everyone who has made this event possible. I also want to thank Ballard for taking the fight, I know he is coming prepared, but so are we.

“I am in great shape and I feel very prepared. I know everyone had a nice holiday season, but the truth is that we never stopped training. I am focused and want to make sure I deliver a great night of boxing for all of my fans.

“It was my dream come true to come back to Tijuana and I guarantee everyone that it will be a spectacular event.”

D’MITRIUS BALLARD

“I want to thank Tijuana for being a gracious host for me and my team. I am really looking forward for the opportunity. I love to compete.

“I just can’t wait for February 19 to show the world what I can do. I want to thank team Munguia for the opportunity to stand up on the stage with him, he is a great fighter thus far. I am looking forward to the challenge.

“On February 19 there will be fireworks.”