Caleb Plant says his experiences and setbacks have molded him into a complete fighter at 32 years of age.
‘Sweet Hands’ returns to action this Saturday night, having suffered his only two defeats from 25 bouts in his last four outings. Plant has doubters lining up to say his career is on the slide.
However, the Las Vegas-based Tennessean is adamant he still has a lot to offer the sport despite defeats to Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez.
On either side of his defeats, Plant has lived up to his nickname by stopping Anthony Dirrell and Trevor McCumby. And as a massive battle with Jermall Charlo lies in wait, Plant aims to take the opportunity to show his rival what’s in store.
Charlo shares top billing with Plant on the fight card, as he faces Thomas LaManna at the Mandalay Bay Hotel. Plant is keen to make an example of his foe, Jose Armando Resendiz, on Prime Video.
“It feels good to be back on the big stage. My team put in a lot of work and left no stone unturned. That’s gonna show on Saturday,” said Plant, who defends the interim WBA super middleweight title.
“I’m looking to put on a show. This is a big moment for Armando, but it’s big for me too. I have a lot on the line.
“He may have nothing to lose, but I’ve got everything to lose. I sacrificed a lot, and you’re going to see it in the ring.
“I’m a competitor and I’m a winner. I’ve been a winner my whole life. Regardless of whatever I’ve done, that’s not what wakes me up in the morning.”
On feeling fresh in his thirties, Plant added, “At this point in my career, I’m a complete fighter. Whether it’s inside, outside, or midrange, I have great legs and great feet.
“Whatever he decides to do, we’ll be right there with him, but levels above. We’re going to show him that there are levels to this.
“Experience plays a big factor in every fight. That’s something that I’ve had. I’ve faced the best in the sport. I’m the biggest and baddest dude he’s ever fought.
“You’re going to be hearing ‘And still’ (the interim WBA super middleweight champion), and it’s gonna be in impressive fashion. So make sure you tune in.”
Resendiz, who took the stage at the final press conference, holds plans for a shock victory.
“This has me so motivated and happy that I can’t even express how excited I am. My team has gone above and beyond. I’m feeling like the best version of myself.
“I don’t care what Caleb says. I’m just focused on myself. I’m going to speak with my fists when that bell rings.
“Caleb is right that I have nothing to lose. But I have a lot to fight for, too. I just announced that I’m going to be a father for the first time. So I’m fighting for more than just myself.
“The fight will show me how I have to approach Caleb. I have a lot of strategies past plan A. If I have to be in a brawl, I will. All that matters is that I get the win.
“He’s the toughest opponent of my life, and that motivates me. I can’t wait for Saturday night,” he concluded.
Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com. The Plant vs Resendiz and Charlo vs LaManna co-features are live on PBC Prime Video this Saturday night from Michelob Ultra Arena.
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Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay and learn more about the author. Phil Jay is an experienced boxing writer and Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010.
