Henry Lebron and Derlyn Hernandez face off in advance of showdown

Junior-lightweight contenders Derlyn Hernandez and Henry Lebron faced off today in advance of their 10-round showdown this Saturday, September 26.

WBO No. 14-ranked Hernandez, 14-5-1 (12 KOs), of San Juan via Monte Plata, Dominican Republic, takes on undefeated IBF No. 5-, WBA No. 14-, and WBO 12-ranked Lebron, 21-0 (11 KOs), of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, to headline a five-fight live broadcast (8:00 pm ET) on Wynn Records Network from Pedrin Zorrilla Coliseum in San Juan.

“Moncho” Lebron has fought just once in nearly two years, but the undefeated 28-year-old southpaw says he’s now ready to jump back into the thick of the division, using a title-winning victory over Hernandez as the springboard.

“We’re ready to continue climbing the rankings and put ourselves in position for a world championship opportunity,” said Lebron. “Derlyn is a strong fighter, and I know he’s coming in hungry and determined. I’ve prepared myself to show my true level and prove what I’m capable of. This is my moment, and on Saturday night, I’m taking that championship home with me.”

After losing four of five, “El Coyote” Hernandez got his career back on track and secured a world ranking in March of this year by scoring a highlight-reel knockout over previously undefeated Abisael Cotto, nephew of Miguel Cotto, to win his WBO Global belt. 

Hernandez, 32, says he’s planning to continue his forward momentum by spoiling Lebron’s return on Saturday.

“I’m grateful for this great opportunity to defend my championship,” said Hernandez. “Lebrón is one of the best fighters Puerto Rico has to offer, but I’ve prepared myself to make sure he doesn’t have the opportunity to shine. I’m ready for whatever he brings. This is going to be a war between two real fighters, and I’m ready to defend what’s mine.”

The event, promoted by Universal Promotions and Salita Promotions in association with Wynn Records, will also feature unbeaten women’s junior-lightweight Kiria Tapia taking on Juliana Basualdo in a 10-round bout.

Undefeated heavyweight Giovanni Scuderi will take on Devonte Williams in an eight-round attraction, while Puerto Rican lightweight Angel “El Mensajero” Carranza steps in against Kevin Piedrahita in an eight-round bout. 

In the opening on Wynn Records Network, undefeated featherweight William Colon will face Luis Porozo in a six-round matchup.