Former 122-pound champion Brandon Figueroa (25-2-1) will face perennial contender Joet Gonzalez (27-4) on July 19th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Figueroa, who was also "e-mailed" the WBC championship by getting upgraded from interim titlist, is coming off a loss to Stephen Fulton earlier this year. The Figueroa-Gonzalez bout will be part of the Mario Barrios vs. Manny Pacquiao PBC pay-per-view show. Here is what Figueroa had to say at press events earlier this week:

“I have a new trainer in Manny Robles and we’ve been working together the last four weeks. I feel incredible. I’ve been working very hard and I’m proud to be in this position.
 
“If you asked me when I started my career if I ever saw myself fighting on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao, I’d say you’re crazy. But this was destiny and I’m happy to be on this card with all these other hungry fighters.
 
“I’m really motivated knowing that I’ll be followed by all these great fighters. I know Joet Gonzalez comes ready, so we’re gonna give fans a great show and let everyone know that this card is stacked.
 
“I’m always down for a fight. Styles make fights and this opener is gonna be amazing. I just can’t wait to get in there.
 
“I’m coming with everything. I feel like I owe it to the boxing fans after my last performance. This time I’m giving everything I’ve got.
 
“I’m learning every day from Manny Robles. We’re just getting started and finding a groove. I come to work. I know he’ll have me ready in mind, body and spirit to get this win on July 19.”