Sam Noakes (13-0, 13 KOs) and Yvan Mendy (48-6-1, 22 KOs, 1 NC) clash in the hopes of becoming the latest European lightweight champion.
Both men face each other in the headline event of a Queensberry Promotions card at York Hall in London, England. The April 20 event will air live on TNT Sports for those in the UK. Ahead of their clash on Saturday, Noakes and Mendy spoke at a press conference. Below is some of what they had to say.
Sam Noakes and Yvan Mendy Ready for European Title Clash
Noakes
“It’s coming thick and fast,” said Noakes about fighting only two months after his last bout. “It’s good going from camp to camp because I obviously ain’t got the time to put the weight back on. I think it’s nice to be busy. Every boxer wants to be busy, that’s what I’ve been saying. To be given this opportunity, I’m very grateful, and I’ve got a class opponent. It’s going to be a good fight. I can’t disagree with anything he’s said. Both of us know what it means to us. We get this win, puts us in a great position. So may the best man win come Saturday night.”
Mendy
“I’m really happy to be having the chance to recuperate this belt,” said Mendy through an interpreter. “I lost the belt in 2022 and now I’m really happy to have the opportunity to regain my belt.”
“Honestly, I don’t know much on Sam Noakes. The fact that he has a 100 per cent knockout ratio, it doesn’t really give any effect to me. I fought so many unbeaten boxers. It is what I do and it’s not going to make any difference to me.”
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“It’s exactly that,” said Mendy on whether he viewed Noakes as just another unbeaten record he wants to take. “I’ve fought these unbeaten guys before. I’ve got the exact same determination and that’s exactly what I’m going to do again. It’s just another step in my career and it’s another win that I’m going to get.”
Sam Noakes vs. Yvan Mendy Fight Prediction
While Noakes has won every fight of his by stoppage, Mendy has yet to be stopped. However, the Frenchman is 38 and not too far away from retirement, realistically speaking. Noakes will have power and youth on his side. Mendy is a veteran of the sport and should be a durable opponent. We expect Noakes to win by unanimous decision.
Full Press Conference
For the full press conference featuring Noakes, Mendy and other undercard fighters, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Queensberry Promotions.