After being away from the squared circle for more than a full calendar year, exciting slugger Victor Ortiz is set to return to action on July 30 when he takes on Saul Corral. The two will face off in the main event of a special Sunday edition of PBC on FS1, which will occur inside Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, Calif.
“This is a great opportunity for me to get back in the ring, shake off the ring rust and put on a show for the fans,” said Ortiz (31-6-2, 24 KOs). “I've been really focused on training and getting myself back physically and mentally to where I need to be. This is my first time fighting since my son was born and it's given me a whole new purpose in life. I'm thankful to everyone who has helped me get to this point and I can't wait to go do what I do best and entertain everyone in the arena and watching on FS1.”
Corral has spent most of his pro career slugging it out in his native Mexico. He’s coming off a 1-2 stretch where he’s suffered losses to Sadam Ali and Josesito Lopez. Prior to that he had won four in a row, all by knockout, and he’s looking to change his fortunes against Ortiz.
“I am excited to test myself against another great former champion in Victor Ortiz,” said Corral (24-9, 15 KOs). “Everyone who has seen me fight knows I will give it my all every time I step into the ring. I plan on being aggressive and making Ortiz very uncomfortable in the ring. He has had problems overcoming adversity in the ring and I am going to test him and give him everything I have.”
Broadcast coverage will begin with a super welterweight battle between Justin DeLoach (17-1, 9 KOs) and Fernando Guerrero (28-4, 20 KOs). 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas (1-0, 1 KO) will also be in action, though an opponent has yet to be determined. The action goes live on FS1 beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.