CABAZON, California (AFP) ? Undefeated Australian powerhouse Michael Katsidis, with 20 knockouts in 23 fights, challenges Cuban veteran Joel Casamayor for the World Boxing Council interim lightweight title here Saturday.
A victory by the 27-year-old puncher from Toowoomba, Queensland, could put him in the path of Philippines star Manny Pacquiao, who is likely to next fight WBC lightweight champion David Diaz of the United States.
Katsidis has not fought since his US pro debut last July when he won a unanimous 12-round decision over Czar Amonsot, shaking off cuts over both eyes to knock down the Filipino fighter twice and take the victory.
A possible Katsidis title fight with Juan Diaz fell through, the US fighter electing to face compatriot Nate Campbell two weeks ago and losing his World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation lightweight crowns.
Katsidis, a 2000 Olympian at lightweight who lost in the second round, instead booked a date with 36-year-old Casamayor, the 1992 Olympic champion who as a pro is 35-3 with one drawn and 21 knockouts.
“It’s an honor to fight a great champion like Casamayor and I’m looking forward to testing my skills against him,” Katsidis said. “I believe my pressure, power and youth will carry me to victory.”
Casamayor took a split decision over Diego Corrales in 2006 to claim the WBC lightweight title but did not fight again for 13 months until edging Jose Santa Cruz by split decision four months ago despite being knocked down in round one.
The long layoff and narrow escape has many questioning whether Casamayor retains his championship form.
“I’ve been on top for a long time and I’m not about to leave anytime soon,” Casamayor said. “Katsidis is a good fighter and he will be on top of this division someday, but this is still my time and I’m not about to lose to him.”
