TAPIA’S BACK- “THIS ONE IS FOR THE FANS”

03.09 - 5-time World Champion Johnny Tapia (52-3-2, 29 KOs) returns to the ring on Friday, September 26th in a homecoming bout to benefit Albuquerque’s needy charities. Tingley Coliseum will be the site of Tapia vs Carlos Contreras (18-7-3, 12 KOs) in a non-televised 10-round featherweight bout.

“I’ve been taking it easy the past few months. Just enjoying life and getting healthy. It’s time to get back to work. I’ve got another championship win in me. Bet on it.”

Tapia continued, “Make no mistake, Contreras is coming to fight. He’ll try to give me a good fight but I’ve been in with the best. I do my talking in the ring. I refuse to lose because this one is for all of my fans in the state of New Mexico.”

The Tapia’s are moving their family back to Albuquerque this weekend. “I’m coming home for good. I was born and raised here. I’ll live and die here. This is my homecoming party and I want it to benefit the community. My life has been blessed. New Mexico has shown me such love and support. I’m at a p lace in my life where I can help others and that’s what I want to do.”

Added Teresa, “Johnny is feeling healthy both mentally and physically and is ready to get back into the ring. He had a number of higher profile fights offered to him, but it was more important to Johnny to fight for the fans at home in New Mexico. Contreras has the heart of a warrior. But Johnny is a warrior. I expect this to be a really exciting fight. ”

In addition to the September 26th card, the Tapia’s will be hosting a fund raising event on Thursday, September 25th. Details about the Tapia’s chosen charities to follow.

Tickets are available from Ticketmaster.com.