Jhonny Gonzalez Ring Return Set For 5/24 in Acapulco

Jhonny Gonzalez is set to return to the ring on May 24 in Acapulco. An opponent is still being sought, but the reigning featherweight titlist has grown tired of working around other fighters' schedules and is ready to move on with his career, on his terms.

The 32-year old hasn't fought since regaining a portion of the featherweight title with a surprise 1st round knockout of previously unbeaten Abner Mares last August. A rematch was in store, but postponed due to a reported injury. Mares has since been linked to several other possible fights, but remains undecided on his own next move.

Gonzalez, on the other hand, is ready to begin his third championship tour, including his second reign at featherweight. 

"We waited around as long as possible for that famous rib to heal," quipped Oswaldo Kuchle of Promociones del Pueblo, Gonzalez' promoter. "It's time to get back in the ring." 

Gonzalez (55-8, 47KO) has been known as one of the more active fighters in the sport, habitually fighting four times a year. A career resurrection came with his first reign as featherweight champ, scoring an upset knockout win over Hozumi Hasegawa on the road in Japan nearly three years ago. The feat came four years following his stay as a bantamweight titlist, holding his own as a top featherweight before running into Daniel Ponce de Leon in September '12.

Three wins have since followed, including the shocker over Mares, which was recognized by Boxingscene.com as 2013 Upset of the Year. 

Mares exercised a rematch clause, but has yet to come back around to renegotiate terms following his healing from a rib injury. 

Gonzalez was prepared to move on, but momentarily forced to put all matters on hold when his older brother went missing on Valentine's Day. The scare was temporary, as the family was reunited three days later.

An opponent is still being sought for the show in Acapulco, with an announcement expected within the next couple of weeks.