‘He knows who he’s up against’: Charlo says LaManna can’t afford any mistakes

Jermall Charlo says he looks forward to showcasing peak form in return against Thomas LaManna.

With Jermall Charlo set for his ring return this weekend against Thomas LaManna on the undercard of Caleb Plant vs Armando Resendiz, the fighters appeared today for their final press conference before the fight.

“If he makes the wrong move, makes a miscalculation, or gets just a little too close, then I’m gonna knock his ass clean out,” Jermall Charlo would say of LaManna. “I feel the energy and the energy is great right now. I’m thankful to my whole team that’s stood by me. I’m ready to showcase my talent and give you all the old Jermall Charlo.”

Charlo (33-0, 22 KOs) will be fighting in Las Vegas, familiar territory as he last scored a win over Jose Benavidez Sr at the same venue in late 2023.

“Las Vegas is like a second home to me. I’ve got a lot of friends and family here and I’m happy to be back. There’s no other place like Las Vegas,” Charlo continued. “I’m moving up to 168 because the competition is better. I’m not overlooking LaManna, but there are other fighters I can face in this division that would solidify my legacy. But right now I’m focused on getting wins and getting to the next level. I’m always learning and enjoying the sport.

“I don’t know if he’s trying to intimidate me. I wouldn’t expect nothing less than for him to be locked in. He knows who he’s up against.”

Thomas LaManna (39-5-1, 18 KOs) will be in against a level of opposition he presumably hasn’t seen in his career, but he believes this is an opportunity for him to step up to the plate for what would be his biggest win.

“This is my last opportunity at greatness,” said LaManna. “It’s been a long journey for me and now I get to test my skills against a two-division world champion. Come Saturday night, we’re gonna shock the world.

“I know the show is based around Caleb and Jermall, but I’m here to do my part. I’m gonna upset the apple cart. Let’s let these fights happen.”

When LaManna was asked about how his focus has been in his preparation for this fight, LaManna said he’s been working hard to be ready for the moment.

“I’m real locked in. I know what I’m up against, so I had to train my ass off. I’ve been training like that for six months,” LaManna said. “Every fighter when you turn pro wants to fight in Las Vegas. Seeing my picture on the billboards is an honor. It means everything to me.

“I’m gonna shock the world by any means. That’s the only thing we’re coming to do.”