In a very interesting crossroads fight for both fighters, 2012 Olympian Joseph “Jojo” Diaz Jr. (19-0, 11 KOs) will make his HBO debut as he faces the ever confusing Puerto Rican Jayson “La Maravilla” Velez (23-1-1, 16 KOs) at Oracle Arena in Oakland, California. The 10-round featherweight fight will open the HBO telecast headlined by former world champion Andre Ward (28-0, 15 KOs) taking on number one rated IBF light heavyweight contender Sullivan Barrera (17-0, 12 KOs) in a 12-round light heavyweight clash.

Velez last was in action losing to Ronny Rios, prior to that he fought to a draw over Evgeny Gradovich in a fight most felt Velez won. In contrast, Diaz Jr. has not fought an opponent of this level in his professional career up until this point.