Trinidad seeks victory over Jones as birthday present

Posted January 08, 2008 10:00 pm

Associated Press

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico -- Former middleweight champion Felix Trinidad said Wednesday that he wants to give himself a birthday gift - a victory over Roy Jones Jr.

Trinidad, who spoke a day before his 35th birthday, said he has earned many titles during his 18-year career and craves the euphoria of another big win.

"I want to fight and taste victory with my fans," he said. "I'm returning because I feel the passion of coming back."

Widely regarded as Puerto Rico's top fighter of the past 20 years, Trinidad (42-2, 35 knockouts) will climb into the ring against Jones in New York on Jan. 19 for the bout's $14 million purse.

Trinidad hasn't fought since a punishing loss to Winky Wright in May 2005.

Trinidad said he is not bothered by critics who say he is too old, adding that many boxers past 40 achieved success in the ring, such as 42-year-old Bernard Hopkins.

He also said a pledge by Jones (51-4, 38 knockouts) to send him to the canvas early in the bout doesn't concern him.

"He'll find me prepared on the 19th," Trinidad said. "He'll remember who Tito Trinidad is. Jones is going to look bad because his promise will not materialize."

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