By Jhonny Gonzalez

As previously reported, it's looking likely that undefeated WBO featherweight champion Juan Manuel Lopez (30-0, 27KOs) will defend his title against former champion Ricardo Cordoba (37-3, 23KOs) on April 16 at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Showtime is reportedly more favorable to Lopez facing Cordoba. There were several options presented to the network, including Teon Kennedy (16-0, 7KOs). The network felt Cordoba was the best option because of the exposure he received by facing Guillermo Rigondeaux on the undercard to last November's big fight between Manny Pacquiao and Antonio Margarito in Cowboys Stadium.

Cordoba and Rigondeaux exchanged knockdowns before the ex-champion lost a close split decision. Cordoba also has a win over Juanma's rival, Celestino Caballero.

Juanma's co-promoter, Peter Rivera, of Puerto Rico Best Boxing, says negotiations are taking place but nothing has been set.

"Cordoba has been discussed a lot but nothing is final or binding. Cordoba had a lot of exposure in that fight [with Rigondeaux] and that's why Showtime is interested in his name," Rivera said told Lester Jiminez.