By Rick Reeno

BoxingScene.com was advised that a deal to make a catch-weight bout, between former champions Paulie Malignaggi and Juan Diaz, is hanging on a single pound. The fight would take place on August 22 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, and HBO will televise.

Diaz wants the fight to be closer to 135-pounds and Malignaggi wants it close to 140. Diaz stood tight on a catch-weight of 137. A few days have gone by and he budged a little. I've heard Diaz is now willing to go as high as 138. Malignaggi is still standing firm on a max of 139. There are concerns that Malignaggi would put his body through hell to make 138-pounds.

Malignaggi got down to 138 on two occassions since November of 2002. The last time was the June 2007 title win over Lovemore N'dou. Personally I don't see the issue with Diaz taking the fight at 139. Malignaggi has no power at 140 and he won't have any power at 139. I could see some concern if Malignaggi could actually hit. He can't, and Diaz has a good chin.