Local favorite Flores on Top Rank undercard

He is scheduled to be the last fighter to enter the ring tonight on Top Rank's holiday boxing card at the Hard Rock Hotel, but Angel Flores probably will have the most support of anyone competing.

Flores, a Las Vegan who attended Desert Pines High School, will be seeking his 10th career victory when he meets Geoffery Spruiell in a six-round welterweight fight that supports an eight-bout card. Josh Clottey will face Shamone Alvarez in a 12-round IBF welterweight eliminator in the main event.

"They keep me running," Flores said of the some 200 fans who will remain after the main event for his fight. "You give a hard shot and you hear them, and you get motivated and you want to finish off your opponent."

Flores, 21, is 9-1 entering his bout with Spruiell (4-5), of Pueblo, Colo. Flores said he's learning how to be a more complete fighter and that each bout is a chance to improve his skills.

"I was more of a street fighter when I first started," Flores said. "I was trying to be a warrior. But I'm boxing better. I'm learning not to take as many punches. Why get hit when you don't need to?"

Flores' father, Armando, got his son involved in boxing as a teenager after Angel found himself getting into trouble at school for fighting. Armando Flores said the sport not only helped turn around his son, it has opened the possibility of prosperity for the family.

"I've always loved boxing," the elder Flores said. "I live for him fighting now. I feel like I'm in there with him."

Angel Flores said boxing is the motivation for him to provide for his family.

"I'm hoping it will lead to some big paydays down the road," he said. "My family has been with me since Day One.

"... We've struggled, but Top Rank is being patient with me, and I'm getting better."

Flores isn't the only local fighter competing tonight. Clark High graduate Diego Magdelano will make his professional debut against Francisco Palacios in a four-round lightweight bout.

Emily Klinefelter of Iowa City, Iowa, also will make her pro debut, facing Cynthia Talmadge in a four-round women's featherweight bout.

The first bell is scheduled for 5 p.m.