Interim WBA World lightweight champ Derry Mathews will defend his title against Ismael Barroso over a scheduled 12 rounds in England, at a venue yet to be determined, on Saturday, November 14.
Thirty-two-year-old Mathews is a 12-year vet (38-9-2, 20 KOs) who fights out of Liverpool. He won the title in his most recent fight, decisioning Tony Luis in April. First-ranked by the WBA, “Dirty” has won five of his last six.
Fighting out of El Tigre, Venezuela, 32-year-old Barroso is a 10-year pro (18-0-2, 17 KOs) who most recently fought in April, knocking out Ira Terry in the first. The undefeated and hard-hitting southpaw is ranked second by the WBA.
Though Barroso won his first WBA title in June 2011, the vacant Fedebol lightweight championship, by knocking out Addir Sanchez in the fifth, the upcoming bout marks his first crack at a major title.
“I thank God that I signed my contract for my next fight that will be in England,” he said. “I’m thankful for the opportunity that’s been given to me. I’m just waiting for the day to arrive. I assure all of the people who have placed their trust in me that I will not fail them and I’ll give a great show. I will win however possible for Venezuela.”
This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.
