By Mark Vester

Floyd Mayweather Jr. (41-0, 25KOs) announced to his 1.2 million followers on Twitter that he plans to return on September 17th to challenge the new WBC welterweight champion Victor Ortiz (29-2-2, 22KOs) of California. Ortiz, who moved up from junior welterweight, won the title in April with an impressive twelve round decision over previously undefeated Andre Berto.

The fight between Ortiz and Mayweather had been rumored for weeks, although both camps continued to deny the negotiations. Mayweather has not fought since last May's dominating decision win over "Sugar" Shane Mosley. Mayweather-Ortiz is a sure fight to land on HBO pay-per-view, and Las Vegas is the likely location to host - although Dallas, Texas is another rumored location.

Mayweather's main rival, Manny Pacquiao, defends his WBO welterweight title against Juan Manuel Marquez in a trilogy bout on November 12.

"My fans have been waiting long enough. Floyd Mayweather vs. Victor Ortiz. Sept-17 2011 for the WBC World Championship," Mayweather wrote on his Twitter page.