By Ryan Burton

BoxingScene.com recently spoke with heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz (19-0) and his manager Jay Jimenez.  They wanted to clear the air regarding the Cuban fighter's promotional status. Recent reports have suggested that Ortiz has signed with a major promoter but Jimenez said that Ortiz is signed only to Dade Promotions, a Miami based promotional company owned by George Carmenate and that they are looking to sign a contract with a major promoter soon.

Ortiz is ranked #2 by the WBA and is due to fight a mandatory for the #1 position that is currently vacant. Chris Arreola is ranked #3 by the organization and Ortiz made it clear that he is willing to face Arreola or any other top contender.

"I am ready for the big names.  I can beat any of the top guys in the division. I feel like none of the top three ranked fighters in any of the sanctioning bodies can hang with me," Ortiz told BoxingScene.com.

The 34-year-old Florida based Cuban plans on returning to the ring next month and hopes to fight for a world title next year.

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