By Jake Donovan
Big plans are in store for budding super lightweight Antonio Lozada, who continues to put earlier career setbacks in the rearview mirror with each performance of late.
Five straight wins have followed since suffering an upset knockout loss to Roberto Ortiz last summer. The 22-year old knockout artist looks to continue his winning ways when he faces Edgar Llanes this Saturday in Ecatepac, Mexico. The scheduled 10-round bout serves as the evening's co-feature, with stable mate Humberto Soto in the main event against Jose 'Piston' Lopez to complete this weekend's "Sabados de Corona telecast live on Televisa.
"I'm ready for a tough fight from a tough opponent," Lozada (28-1, 24KO) insists. "I'm preparing well in the mountains with Humberto Soto. My preparation was 110%. I feel stronger than ever and I will make a big statement. My promoter Promociones del Pueblo has big plans lined up for me."
Winning and looking good doing so are key to what's in store for his 2013 campaign. The latter part is essential on this particular evening, as national royalty will be in the house among an expected capacity crowd.
"We have a stadium ready to house 9,000 fans," suggests Oswaldo Kuchle of Promociones del Pueblo. "Tickets are selling fast and it will be another great night of boxing. The governor of Mexico will be in attendance for this spectacular night."
Lozada knows to look good, not just for the camera but also for the top players in and around his weight class. Plus, it will further drum up interest for his planned tour beyond his native Mexico.
"I believe I'm closing in on a world title shot," Lozada states. "My confidence is growing with each fight. Next year, I want to fight the best and also make my debut in the United States."
Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of Boxingscene.com. Follow Jake on Twitter: @JakeNDaBox.
