In a crossroads scenario, Jayson 'La Maravilla' Velez (26-5-1, 18KO's) is preparing for a showdown scheduled for Saturday, September 22 at the Rafael Amalbert de Juncos Coliseum, when he collides with 2000 Sydney Olympian Orlando 'El Fenomeno' Cruz (25-6-2, 13KO's) in the main event of 'Noche de Campeones DIRECTV.

La Maravilla vs. The Phenomenon will be presented by Universal Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions.

"It will be another important step in my career, since I like big challenges," said the 30-year-old Velez. "Orlandito Cruz comes from showing that he still has a lot of boxing left, and I know that on September 22 he will come to give the best of himself. We are going to take advantage of this fight to the maximum in order to use this new opportunity to get a world championship."

After his huge knockout victory over two division world champion Juan Manuel 'Juanma' Lopez, the always durable Velez had a great showcase in May in California, where he lost a decision to Golden Boy Promotions super prospect Ryan Garcia .

"I gained a lot in my matches against Juanma (Lopez) and Ryan Garcia, it was definitely fighting them that made me grow even more as a boxer and prepared me for this brawl against such a high caliber opponent," he said.

"Now I come with more resolve and I'm convinced that a world title opportunity is closer than ever. I know that Orlando (Cruz) likes to move a lot, box pretty and run around the ring, but at some point he's going to have to stop to fight. Even if he puts on the skates, I'm ready to chase him until I catch him. Jayson is ready for hunting season "

For his part, Cruz comes back to recover ground after losing to Terry Flanagan and José 'Wonder Boy' López, and managing to get a very important draw against prospect Lamont Roach in April at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico.

'The Wonder' vs. 'The Phenomenon' is agreed for the ten round distance at a maximum weight of 130 pounds.