Vergil Ortiz Jr. is expected to move up to middleweight for his return in November, with Jermell Charlo, Erislandy Lara, Tim Tszyu and Carlos Adames among the opponents being considered.
Ortiz (24-0, 22 KOs) has not fought since stopping Erickson Lubin in the second round in November 2025. A proposed junior-middleweight showdown with Jaron Ennis failed to materialise, and Ortiz is now exploring opportunities at 160 pounds.
His manager, Rick Mirigian, is assessing several established names for Ortiz’s potential middleweight debut. Lara and Adames would offer immediate opportunities against prominent fighters in the division, while former undisputed junior middleweight champion Charlo represents one of the biggest names being considered. Tszyu is also among the options.
Although Ortiz’s next opponent has not been finalized, his November comeback is currently expected to mark his middleweight debut.