Marco Antonio Periban Begins The Rebuilding Tour

It's been two years - almost to the day - since Marco Antonio Periban's last win. Still, the goal remains to become the first fighter in Mexico's rich boxing history to capture a super middleweight title.

That won't happen tonight, as he returns to the ring to face countryman Octavio Castro. The  stay-busy fight takes place at light heavyweight - both fighters weighed in right at the 175 lb. limit - nor is there any title at stake. 

What is on the line is his fighting future. There are plenty who still believe in Periban, including one of Mexico's leading promotional outfits Promociones del Pueblo. Periban inked a multi-year deal with the group, believing it was his best shot at notoriety and climbing the rankings as he punches his way back into contention.

"Signing with a company as prestigious as Promociones del Pueblo will grant me greater exposure in my country," notes Periban (20-3-1, 13KOs), who looks to rebuild following disheartening losses to Sakio Bika and J'Leon Love, as well as a 3rd round knockout loss to James 'Chunky' DeGale last November. "They will keep me busy here in Mexico and help bring me closer to another world title fight." 

Periban came closer than any other fighter in Mexico's history to claim a super middleweight belt, when he dropped a narrow decision to Bika in their June '13 vacant title fight. The loss was his first, but also the start of a rough stretch where he is 0-3-1 in his last four starts. 

Tonight's bout with Castro (16-14-2, 10KOs) takes place on the undercard of a big card in Jiqulipilco, Mexico. Topping the bill, Mariana Juarez faces Naoko Fujioka in a flyweight bout. Also on the show in the chief support, Julio Ceja faces Oscar Blanquet as he bides his time for a second shot at a bantamweight title.

The main event and co-feature will air live on Televisa in Mexico. Periban's bout could make the telecast, time permitting.