Back in 2016, Felix Verdejo was considered one of boxing's best prospects and the future of Puerto Rican boxing, but three years later, Verdejo is still looking to capitalize on his potential.
A motorcycle accident in the fall of 2016 dashed Verdejo's hopes of fighting for a world title, and ever since then, his career has been marred by lackluster performances, an injury that forced him to withdraw from a fight in 2017 and an upset loss last year. That loss, which took place in March 2018, took place at Madison Square Garden and tonight, Verdejo returns to the site of the only blemish on his professional record.
Verdejo will take on former world title challenger Bryan Vasquez and in an exclusive interview with Fightful during fight week and said this fight was his ticket to regaining the momentum that he had during his days as a prospect.
"This is a big fight for me and my career. It’s one where I have to show that I can get back on top and be one of the big stars for Top Rank," Verdejo said. "I’ve learned from those past mistakes that I have committed and I’m ready to get my career back on track."
Vasquez is perhaps the toughest opponent in Verdejo's career and a win over him would put him back on track to potentially be a real player in boxing's top-heavy 135-pound division. While the division is loaded with big names such as Vasiliy Lomachenko, Richard Commey, Teofimo Lopez, Robert Easter Jr. and others, Verdejo is looking to win this fight and restart his quest for a world title.
"I know he’s talented in the ring. He likes to take advantage of the distance inside the ring and we know he’s a strong fighter and can take a punch. I have to simply execute my gameplan and be willing to show that I can take back my career," Verdejo said.
The fight will be a part of the Terence Crawford vs. Amir Khan pay-per-view card at Madison Square Garden. Fightful will have live coverage of the entire card from New York City. You can watch Verdejo’s interview with Fightful in Spanish in the video at the top of the page. An English transcript can be seen in the description of the video page which can be seen at this link.
