Lightweight product Jose Roman (20-1, 14 KOs) of Garden Grove, Calif. has a serious challenge ahead of him when he faces hardened veteran Marco Antonio Lopez (24-6, 15 KOs) of Oxnard, Calif. next Friday, June 26.
Roman vs. Lopez serves as the 8-round main event for Thompson Boxing Promotions “New Blood” show originating from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.
Lopez comes in with an outstanding resume, having faced a long list of distinguished boxers.
Last year he went the distance in a tough loss against Japan’s Takahiro Ao, a former two-division world champion. He also has seen U.K.-based Kevin Mitchell, who has fought a who’s who of world champions at lightweight.
He has faced Jaider Parra and Juan Antonio Rodriguez, both of whom would fight against future world champions. In April, Lopez even met Felix Verdejo, a budding lightweight prospect who many feel is Puerto Rico’s next great boxer.
Next Friday he will challenge another up-and-coming prospect in Roman.
“He’s going to have his hands full, that’s for sure,” Lopez said. “I realize he has a lot of ability, but I have experience against world class talent.”
Roman was last seen in April when he knocked out Martin Cardona in the third round. Prior to that, the 27-year-old Roman notched four wins a year ago and brings with him a six fight winning streak dating back to 2013.
“I’ll be ready for whatever Lopez brings,” Roman said. “I’m always well prepared and ready to make any adjustments required to win.”
In the co-feature, undefeated lightweight Cesar Villarraga (7-0, 4 KOs) will put his unbeaten record on the line against journeyman Jose Araiza (34-12-1, 25 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico (6-rounds).
Tickets for “New Blood” are priced at $40, $60, & $100 and are available for purchase online at ThompsonBoxing.com, or charge by phone at 714-935-0900.
