Erickson Lubin Eyes Title Shot, Views Lara as The Best at 154

By Ben Jacobs

The 154lbs division in boxing is exciting enough, but with Erickson Lubin (14-0, 10 KOs) about to throw his name into the contender’s hat, it could be of even further interest.  The Orlando starlet has caught the attention with a string of impressive displays since he turned professional in 2013, and still at just 20 years of age, he could be on the verge of some big contests.

“I want to leave a mark in the super welterweight division and put the world on notice,” ‘The Hammer’ told BoxingScene.com.

“I don’t really know too much about my opponent (Daniel Sandoval) on Saturday, I know he’s experienced.  I’m pretty sure he’s tough.  I’ve prepared myself for the worst.  But I know at my best I will be dominating the fight.  I’ve studied him a little bit but my coach has studied him a lot.”

Lubin has been moved relatively quick given his age, this is in part due to his impressive amateur record of 143 wins against seven losses.  Indeed, he could have made a run for this year’s Olympics had he decided not to turnover to the paid ranks.  Having fought the likes of Michael Finney, Orlando Lora and José De Jesús Macias, Erickson is building up a record which is seeing him acquire rounds under his belt, likely to stand him in good stead down the line.

“Ever since I turned professional I haven’t fought a guy with a losing record, that’s just the way I like it.  We’re moving up in the ranks one step at a time, but I can see myself fighting for a title next year, when I do fight for a world title I will be prepared.  When I do fight for the world title, these fights that I have had so far are going to help.  Those guys are tough.

“I know I can go 12 rounds if I have to, I know I can go 15 rounds if I have to.  I’m hoping to fight two more times this year after this fight.”

The four major belt holders in the division are currently Jermall Charlo (IBF), Jermell Charlo (WBC), Erislandy Lara (WBA/IBO) and Liam Smith (WBO).  Lubin feels that by next year he will be in a position to challenge one of them.  In fact, he already holds a number seven ranking with the WBC and number twelve rating with the WBA.

“I think that Erislandy Lara is the best of the champions in the division at the moment, his style is hard to beat,” Lubin opined.

“He’s a great boxer, has a bit of punching power and he’s just very smart.  I’m aiming to fight anybody with a title, it doesn’t matter which of the belts.”