By Ryan Burton
On May 20th, Jose Uzcategui (26-2) appeared to be on his way to capturing his first world title when he landed a three punch combination as the bell sounded to end the 8th round.
His opponent, Andre Dirrell (26-2), went down face first and was unable to continue.
The referee ruled that the final punch landed after the bell and disqualified Uzcatequi which gave Dirrell the interim IBF super middleweight title. Uzcategui had hurt and staggered several times throughout the fight and was up on points on two scorecards with the third card being scored even.
After the bout was over, Dirrell's uncle and trainer Leon Lawson was still upset about the punch sequence that caused the disqualification and walked across the ring and suckered punched an unsuspecting Uzcategui.
An arrest warrant was issued for Lawson and he eventually turned himself in. The court case played out and the charges were eventually reduced to a misdemeanor - but Lawson was suspended by the WBC, WBA and the Association of Boxing Commissions.
After reviewing the fight, the IBF ordered an immediate rematch.
Uzcategui had his doubts that Dirrell would follow through with the order but revealed that Dirrell has in fact agreed.
Now that the sequel finally has a date, Uzcatequi is very happy that he will get a shot at redemption.
"The rematch is going to happen on January 26th. We don't have a location yet but we are training and will be ready for that date," said Uzcategui.
The 27-year-old Venezuelan who lives in Tijuana, Mexico is brimming with confidence after their first encounter. He feels that the fight will be a lot easier this time around.
"I am more confident now after the first fight. I will do even better this time. He won't last more than three rounds!" Uzcategui told BoxingScene.com.
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