There will be a new champion in the super lightweight division next month. According to a report from Keith Idec of Boxing Scene, WBA Super Lightweight Champion Alberto Puello tested positive for clomiphene and lost his title. As a result, Rolando Romero will move up in weight to challenge Ismael Barroso for the vacant belt on May 13, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Rolando Romero enters the bout with a record of 14-1 with 12 knockouts. In his last bout, he suffered the first loss of his pro career at the hands of Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Now, he will look to bounce back in yet another title bout in another division.
Romero’s opponent, Ismael Barroso, enters the championship bout with a record of 24-3-2 with 22 knockouts. He is currently enjoying a four-fight winning streak with three knockouts along the way. Barroso was originally scheduled to participate in the non-televised portion of the May 13th event. Now, he finds himself in arguably the biggest fight of his career.
The newly formed bout will have a major impact on the 140-pound division. Regis Prograis holds the WBC title and Subriel Matias has the IBF title. Elsewhere, Josh Taylor is set to fight Teofimo Lopez for the WBO title and Romero-Barroso will determine who the WBA titleholder will be. By the start of the summer, there will be two new champions in this exciting division.
