By Jhonny Gonzalez

Cuba's Richard Abril (17-2-1, 8 KOs) is ready for a world title shot, after he returned from Panama with the interim-lightweight title of the World Boxing Association (WBA). This past Saturday night he captured the interim-belt by busting up former champion Miguel "Aguacerito''Acosta (29-5-2, 23KOs) with three knockdowns to win a twelve round unanimous decision.

"We prepared very hard for this fight. We did not leave any room for surprises, because we knew we were practically in our opponent's house,'' said Abril's trainer Osmiri Fernandez. "Richard has overcome a lot and his confrontation with Rios will be even bigger.''

Abril is now in line for a shot at the full WBA champion Brandon Rios, who defends his belt against John Murray on the Miguel Cotto-Antonio Margarito undercard on December 3rd at New York's Madison Square Garden.

"I am very happy with this result, because it puts me right where I wanted to be - in direct line to fight for the division's big title. We do not know when I'll get in the ring with Rios, but I'll be prepared for that moment. For now, I will enjoy this win,'' Abril told George Ebro.