Exclusive photos: Abner Mares deep into training camp as Jhonny Gonzalez fight nears

Abner Mares training in Santa Fe Springs, Calif.

Article and photos by Chris Robinson (www.HustleBoss.com)

On Wednesday afternoon, HustleBoss.com stepped inside of the Elite Mixed Martial Arts Academy in Santa Fe Springs, Calif. as WBC featherweight champion Abner Mares (26-0-1, 14 KO’s) boxed with junior lightweight prospect Luis Martinez ahead of his Aug. 24 clash with former champion Jhonny Gonzalez.

Mares faces off with Gonzalez in a Showtime attraction from the StubHub Center in nearby Carson in what will serve as the first defense of his new title.

Mares won his WBC bauble with a resounding 10th round TKO over Daniel Ponce De Leon this past May in Las Vegas after moving up in weight and has stamped himself as one of the rising stars in the sport.