Rolando Romero and Ismael Barroso will face off for the WBA super-lightweight title on May 13th, 2023, in Las Vegas.
Romero’s record stands at 14-1, with 12 KOs, while Barroso is ranked #1 with a record of 24-3-2, with 22 KOs.
The title is up for grabs after the former WBA champion Alberto Puello failed a drug test.
As a result, Romero or Barroso has a chance to become the new WBA light welterweight champion. In contrast, Puello has been downgraded as a ‘champion in recess’ as he aims prove his innocence.
“The World Boxing Association declared the Dominican Alberto Puello as 140 lbs. champion in recess after he tested positive for a banned substance…The fight between Rolando Romero and Ismael Barroso will be for the WBA Super Lightweight vacant Championship,” per WBA.
Victory for either fighter would put them in contention for a unification clash. Romero’s last fight was a defeat against Gervonta Davis.
However, a world title would be a major boost for him and those around the division as Ryan Garcia moves up, opening up bigger fights.
And if Rolly comes out victorious, he has already targeted a rematch with Davis.
“Now, if he doesn’t fight me, we know the reason because that last fight was very difficult for him, and I know by far I’ve been the most difficult fight in his career, and he said himself that I’m the hardest puncher than anyone he’s ever faced,” Rolly