The last time Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. fought in his hometown of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, he was a 19-year kid fighting in the first 10 round bout against former Mexican champion Christian Solano, who at the point was the toughest opponent he had face in his young career. Photos by Rafael Soto/Zanfer

“I remember that night very well. I had a lot of support from the fans and it was a very special night. It was my first main event in a big fight at home and I was very excited,” said Chavez Jr.

That fight was back on December 16, 2006 at the Plaza de Toros.

This Saturday, January 29, Chavez Jr. returns as the number one world ranked contender in the WBC Middleweight Division to take on Billy Lyell in the Banorte Soccer stadium in Culiacan.

“I hope that it will be like it was back in 2006. I know that the fans will support me like they did back then and I want give them a fight they will remember for a long, long time,” said Chavez Jr.

It a very important fight for Chavez Jr. as a world championship fight might next and it will also be his second fight under the world best trainer, Freddie Roach who along with Alex Ariza have been in Culiacan for the past two weeks getting the son of the legend ready to defend his WBC Silver Middleweight championship.

“Freddie and Alex are great. They are making me into a world class athlete and have learn so much from them. I know I will be better than when I fought John Duddy and will prove that I am ready for to fight for the world championship next,” said Chavez Jr.

The card that will be televised in the United States by Fox Deportes will be dedicated to Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. who will be inducted in the Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York in June.

“My father is the greatest boxers in Mexican history and we are all so proud of all his accomplishments, but the election into the Hall of Fame is a great honor for our whole family,” said Chavez Jr.

The card will also include the title defense of Jackie “The Aztec Princess” who will defend her WBC Super Bantamweight Championship against Freda Gonzalez of the United States.

The boxing card is promoted by Zanfer promotions and tickets can be purchase at the Banorte Stadium box office or by calling the following number from the United States 011 52 6677 49 50 34