By Rick Reeno

BoxingScene.com was advised that a deal has been reached in principle for a rematch between Juan Diaz and Paulie Malignaggi. The fight will take place on December 12, on HBO, at an agreed upon catch-weight of 139-pounds - and a 20-foot ring too. In August, Diaz won a controversial unanimous decision over Malignaggi when they fought in Diaz's hometown of Houston, Texas. I've heard the rematch may take place in Atlantic City or Las Vegas or Chicago. Diaz has already started training for the rematch.

Coming off the first loss of his career, junior welterweight Victor Ortiz is expected to return in the co-feature. WBC junior middleweight champion Sergio Martinez may see action in a "keep-busy" fight on the untelevised portion of the undercard. Clips of Martinez's fight may be shown on the live HBO telecast.