NEW YORK, October 29 – It seems like only yesterday that Jermain Taylor was just another prospect, trying to make a name for himself in a crowded boxing world. But now, with seventeen wins without a loss and a growing number of fans both in and out of the ring, “Bad Intentions” is striving to become a world champion.
“Every day I think about it, and I am thankful for it, ” said Taylor as he prepares for his November 8th ten rounder with Rogelio Martinez (13-4-1, 5 KOs) on the undercard of the Roy Jones Jr.-Antonio Tarver pay-per-view card. “It is an opportunity for me to showcase my skills on HBOPPV in the opening bout under the best fighter in the world.”
The boxing industry is well aware of what Taylor does in the ring and has acted accordingly, ranking him among the best 160-pounders in the world today. He is currently ranked fifth in the world by the WBC and WBO, seventh by the IBF, and eighth by the WBA. Even The Bible of Boxing, “The Ring” magazine, has recognized Taylor’s talent, ranking him sixth among middleweights.
Needless to say, all eyes will be on Taylor when he steps into the ring with Martinez on November 8. Is Taylor nervous at all about stepping into the ring in Las Vegas, the boxing capital of the world?
“It’s everybody’s dream to fight in Vegas,” said Taylor, who will be making his third professional appearance in Nevada. “It gives you an extra boost because you have all the lights and all the hype. It’s Las Vegas. It’s a great place to fight.”
Taylor-Martinez, part of an exciting night of boxing televised by HBOPPV live from the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, will kick off the pay-per-view broadcast at 9 pm ET / 6 pm PT. The suggested retail price $44.95. In the 29-year-old Martinez, Taylor will be facing a stern test. A Pennsylvania State champion, this native of the Dominican Republic will be coming to Vegas in an attempt to derail Taylor’s train to the top. Taylor is well aware that everyone is now gunning for him as he chases after a world title and the gentleman from Little Rock will be well prepared.
Tickets for this outstanding night of boxing, priced at $600, $400, $200, $100, and $50 are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets, www.ticketmaster.com and at the Mandalay Bay Box Office at 877-632-7800 .