By Rick Reeno
Photo © Tom Casino/Showtime

Later tonight, a rare Friday pay-per-view will pit former champions, Fernando Vargas (26-4, 22KOs) and Ricardo Mayorga (27-6-1, 22 KOs), in a twelve-round grudge match at a catch-weight of 166-pounds. The event takes place Staples Center in Vargas' backyard of Los Angeles, California.

On July 11 in Los Angeles, a press conference was held to announce the fight. As predicted by some, the fighters began the presser with a hearty portion trash-talking which ultimately led to an all-out brawl. Both of them threw caution to the wind. Mayorga unexpectedly slapped Vargas in the head, prompting the "ferocious" ex-champion to retaliate with several punches that hit Mayorga flush. After order was finally restored, Mayorga had visible scratches and swelling on his face and Vargas suffered a minor injury to his hand.

The co-promoters, Don King and Main Events, took no chances with subsequent media events. A large plexiglass wall separated the two fighters at all future pressers and even at the pre-fight weigh-in. The fight was originally scheduled to take place in September, a problem with Vargas' bloodwork pushed it back. Some, like Mayorga's camp, felt Vargas' bloodwork was a ploy and the real reason for the postponement was Vargas' inability to make weight. The fight was originally scheduled for 162-pounds, and was later changed to 166-pounds. Mayorga said in the pre-fight buildup that a demand for a weight change by the Vargas camp had proved his case.

Mayorga was seriously outgunned when he fought Felix Trinidad at 160-pounds in 2004. Even with a serious move in weight, many are picking for Mayorga to stop what appears to be a shot version of Vargas. Vargas has been working to get down in weight since the beginning of the year. Weighing well over 200-pounds in the first quarter of 2007, one has to wonder how much is left in the tank after a drop in weight of at least 50-pounds.

Win or lose, Vargas plans to retire. Let's hope he keeps his promise.

Both guys were stopped in two of their last three fights. Both guys are returning from long layoffs. Both guys are looking for an early knockout. It will certainly be an exciting shootout for as long as it lasts.

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