By Jake Donovan

Not even the thought of spoiling trick-or-treat plans has discouraged boxing fans in the Central Florida region from embracing the return of Felix Verdejo.

The unbeaten lightweight contender from San Juan, Puerto Rico faces Brazil's Josenilson dos Santos in a special Halloween edition of Solo Boxeo Tecate on UniMas. The October 31 telecast airs live from Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

The fight marks Verdejo's fourth ring appearance in the Orlando region, and his first after returning from successful hand surgery over the summer. Fans in the area have responded, with 80% of the available tickets in the intimate venue having already been purchased after going on sale Monday morning. The expectation is a sellout by week's end, mirroring his previous appearance in Orlando one year ago.

Verdejo will fight for just the third time in 2015, his career progress slightly stalled by injuries but with the hope that those problems were left behind in the operating room. A member of the 2012 Puerto Rico Olympic boxing team, Verdejo has been touted as the island's potential next big star from the moment he turned pro late in 2012.

With the exception of his pro debut - which took place in Las Vegas - Verdejo's pro career has largely played to pro-Boricua crowds in New York, Florida and of course his native Puerto Rico.

His most recent win marked his HBO debut, scoring a lopsided 10-round decision over previously unbeaten Ivan Najera at Madison Square Garden Theatre in New York City. The bout took place on the eve of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, a fight tradition that began with Miguel Cotto during his rise in the ranks while with Top Rank, who currently promotes the 22-year young Verdejo.

The upcoming clash with dos Santos (27-3, 17KOs) marks his first fight in the Orlando region since a 2nd round knockout of Sergio Reyes last October. The bout took place in front a beyond-capacity crowd, with the same expected to come of his headliner later this month.

The October 31 show also features unbeaten featherweight Christopher Diaz (12-0, 7KOs), a promising prospect from Barranquitas, PR (roughly 90 minutes south of San Juan) who will celebrate his 21st birthday that evening.

Jake Donovan is the managing editor of BoxingScene.com.
Twitter: @JakeNDaBox
Facebook Page: JakeBScene