By Rick Reeno
Luis DeCubas Jr., the co-manager of WBC interim-welterweight champion Robert Guerrero (30-1-1, 18KOs), confirmed an earlier report on BoxingScene.com - and states that "a deal is in place" to fight former two-time beltholder Andre Berto (28-1, 22KOs) on November 24th at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California. HBO will televise.
Because of an injury, and a fight falling through, Berto has been inactive since last September's TKO victory over Jan Zaveck. Prior to a June rematch with Victor Ortiz, Berto tested positive for norandrosterone, which canceled the planned fight. Berto was later cleared by the California State Athletic Commission.
DeCubas states that both Berto and Guerrero have agreed to have USADA [United States Anti-Doping Agency] regulate a random drug testing protocol.
"We have a deal in place to fight Berto. Robert always said that he's willing to fight anyone and I think it's going to be a great fight. Robert and Andre Berto have agreed to USADA testing. They want to keep the sport clean. I expect a lot of action because both of these boxers come to fight," DeCubas told BoxingScene.com.
"I want to thank [Golden Boy Promotions CEO] Richard Schaefer and Golden Boy for their efforts in securing this great match. After we take care of business on November 24, the sky will be the limit and boxing will have a new superstar."
This past July, Guerrero moved up by two weight divisions to win a twelve round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Selcuk Aydin. Guerrero is a former featherweight, super featherweight and WBO/WBA interim-lightweight champion.
The winner will find himself in a very lucrative position, and certainly a top-tier candidate for a major fight in 2013.
