By Miguel Rivera

Former world middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (48-1-1, 32KOs) is hoping to return on February 28th or March 7th against one of three likely opponents.

The boxer's number one choice is IBF/WBA 'regular' champion Carl Froch, but now the Mexican star is mentioning WBC champion Anthony Dirrell and even a potential fight at 168-pounds with Bernard Hopkins.

Chavez recently signed a contract with powerful manager Al Haymon. However, he is still having legal issues with promoter Top Rank, who firmly believe the boxer is bound to them for one more fight. Chavez Jr. has not fought since March 1, when he won a unanimous decision over Bryan Vera.

"What I've been told is they are negotiating. They tell me that the first possibility is Carl Froch, but that depends on whether or not they reach an agreement. The fight would be on the 28th of February or the first Saturday of March. We are preparing and just waiting for the official announcement or a confirmation should it be these dates," said Chavez Jr. to ESPN Deportes.

"There are other names. Bernard Hopkins at 168 pounds has been mentioned, going for the championship of the World Boxing Council with Anthony Dirrell. I just hope to have news soon and let the people know what awaits me."