Montiel returns Mar. 15 in Chiapas

Montiel returns Mar. 15 in Chiapas

Former three-division titlist Fernando Montiel will return to the ring on Mar. 15 in Chiapas, Mexico, according to Salvador Rodriguez at Boxingscene.com. Montiel will face former featherweight titlist and fellow experienced veteran Cristobal Cruz in a ten-round bout according to the report. The bout will be at the featherweight limit of 126 pounds.

The 34-year old Montiel (50-4-2, 38 knockouts) last fought for a title in November 2011, losing a close unanimous decision to Victor Terrazas. Montiel fought just once in 2013 and is looking to stay in the mix for a big fight as his career winds down.

The 36-year old Cruz (40-15-3, 24 KOs) has seen his career regress into a stage of being a gatekeeper in recent years. His last relevant victory was also his last successful world title defense. In July 2009, Solis decisioned Jorge Solis in defense of his IBF featherweight title. Since then, Cruz has gone 1-4-2.

-Mark E. Ortega / @MarkEOrtega

-Managing editor at www.BehindTheGloves.com