By Miguel Rivera, notifight.com

Former three division world champion Abner Mares (26-1-1, 14KOs) went back to his roots, as he is currently training in Mexico City for his rematch with WBC featherweight champion Jhonny Gonzalez (55-8, 47KOs). The fight is scheduled for February 15th at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The first time they met, earlier this year at the StubHub Center, Gonzalez scored shocking first round stoppage to reclaim the featherweight crown.

Mares could have gone in another direction after the loss, but he wanted revenge and exercised his rematch clause with Gonzalez.

"I was offered many other fights, including Santa Cruz, but I have Mexican pride. I think I owe the people a good fight who didn't see anything the last time. I hope to give a new account of myself when we go back to the Staples Center. I have the same mentality as I did in the first fight - I want to win. That time I wanted to retain my belt and this time I want to get my championship back," Mares explained.

"I would love to knock him out, but we're looking to win whichever way it comes - whether it's by knockout or decision. The truth is, I'm taking this very personally. My coach Marcelo Schejtman is making me see things differently. At first I felt that it was an obligation to win, but now I don't picture any other outcome. This fight is very important to me and I hope to be victorious. I have a different mentality, I feel like nobody can stop me and I'm anxious to get in there."