Katsidis and Diaz fight for Vacant Title

Katsidis to fight for vacant world title By Adrian Warren Australian boxer Michael Katsidis has been given an extra incentive going into his September 13 clash with Juan Diaz with the bout now for the vacant IBO lightweight world title. The clash was originally scheduled for 10 rounds instead of the traditional 12 round championship distance, as it was not for a major title. However, the IBO have decided the battle between former WBO interim lightweight champion Katsidis and former IBF, WBA and WBO titleholder Diaz should be for their vacant crown. The Australian's trainer Brendon Smith claimed it was a second pre-fight victory for Katsidis. He said his charge always wanted a 12-round fight. Queenslander Katsidis, who has been based in the United States for over a year, had already won a dispute over which type of glove to wear for the contest. Smith said Katsidis was training well in Los Angeles and was primed for a big performance. It will be the 2000 Australian Olympian's third straight fight on US cable television network HBO. Smith suggested it already looked as if it would be a sellout crowd at the venue, which can accommodate around 18,000 fans. Katsidis will have the chance to join the growing list of Australian IBO world champions which includes middleweight Daniel Geale and super featherweight Billy Dib. Katsidis, 27, has a record of 23-1 (20 KO's). Diaz, 24, who will be fighting for the first time since losing his titles to American compatriot Nate Campbell, in March, has a 33-1 (17 KO) record. Check out more of this story at: http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=611706