Adrien Broner Promises to Bring His A-Game Against Omar Figueroa
For better or worse, there’s never a dull moment in the life of Adrien “AB” Broner (34-4-1, 24 KOs). The last forty-eight hours are yet another testament to that fact. On July 20, during a Q&A with boxing media to discuss his August 20 fight against ex-WBC lightweight champion Omar Figueroa Jr (28-2-1, 19 KOs), Broner spazzed out. Visibly upset, he went on a tirade against PBC head honcho Al Hayman and SHOWTIME sports executive Stephen Espinoza before abruptly getting up and leaving. Hours later, he went to social media to give a mea culpa and apologize.
Broner took part in another presser with the media on July 22. This time, the multi-divisional champ was subdued and introspective as he chose to focus on the upcoming fight. When asked for his thoughts on Figueroa, the pride of Cincinnati, Ohio gave plenty of respect.
“How can you look past a guy like Figueroa? He’s always been a tough competitor. He was a world champion. You can’t look past no figure like Figueroa.”
For years there have been questions about Broner’s discipline and dedication. His last three fights have taken place at welterweight. However, for Figueroa, the contest is happening at 140, his first fight at junior welterweight since a loss to Mikey Garcia in July 2019. He insists it’s all about training now and the outside distractions are a thing of the past.
A SERIOUS AND REDEDICATED “AB”?
“The most part of this camp is getting in the best shape I can and just come back to myself. That’s my main focus. All of the outside stuff, I don’t bring that into the ring. I don’t bring that around me while I’m in training camp. So, right now, I’m just focused on boxing.”
It would be a welcome sight for boxing fans. When Broner was a world champion at 130 and 135-pounds, he looked like a future superstar. He immediately moved to welterweight and captured a world title in that division. But following the first setback in his pro career, an embarrassing beatdown defeat to Marcos Maidana in December 2013, “AB” has never been the same.
He’s flashed talent in the ring, But his performance has been marred by inconsistency inside the ropes and terrible habits outside of them. Broner seems to adore all the attention and fame the sport brings. But he hasn’t shown the commitment to be his best self when the bell rings.
At age 32, Broner has wasted a lot of years. Many fans and pundits believe his best days are behind him. However, he promises that he still has plenty of good days ahead and his motivation is high.
“The most important part, I’m doing this for myself. I know I can be champion again, and I know I’m going to become champion again; that’s why I’m going on this run […] Adrien Broner, the “Can-Man” is back, and it’s going to be fireworks. I can’t wait to put on a great show!”
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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