By Miguel Rivera
The talks are done and a deal has been finalized, as everything has been set for a collision between former world champion Juan Manuel “Juanma” Lopez (35-5, 32 KOs) and former world title challenger Jayson “La Maravilla” Velez (25-4-1, 17 KOs).
The card, billed as - “Live or Die” - will take place at the Coliseo Rafael G. Amalbert in Juncos, Puerto Rico. Universal Promotions and Black Tiger Promotions have come together to stage the card.
"Bustillo and Carlos Maldonado, who I understand is the promoter of Juanma, were recently talking," Velez said to Jose Sanchez. "But he (Lopez) asked for more time. He was celebrating his birthday these days and he has been inactive for a long time. He will be given the time he needs (to prepare)."
López (35-5, 32 KO's), a two division world champion, snapped a very long layoff last October 29, when he knocked out Wilfredo Vázquez Jr. in the 11th round at the Ruben Rodríguez Coliseum in Bayamón. Afterwards he was suspended for several months for a post-fight brawl with Vazequez's head trainer.
Last Saturday in Mayagüez, Vélez (25-4-1, 17 knockouts) got back in the win department when he beat Giovanni Caro by knockout. Velez was at one time a highly regarded prospect who was trained by Abel Sanchez and showcased on HBO.
