Hitz Boxing will return to the luxurious "Venue" in the Horseshoe Casino, in Hammond, Indiana, on Friday, August 19 for a night of world-class boxing, featuring Chicago's former WBC Lightweight Champion David Diaz in the main event.

Diaz (36-3-1, 17 KOs) won the world championship in 2006 against Jose Armando Santa Cruz and successfully defended against all-time-great Erik Morales via unanimous decision before falling short in a valiant stand against pound-for-pound superstar Manny Pacquiao in an exciting high-profile showdown in 2008. Diaz also has victories over former world champions Jesus Chavez and Ener Julio.

The 35-year-old southpaw Diaz is back stronger than ever and planning to re-join the ranks of the world's best lightweights. He will be looking to make a statement in front of his hometown fans.

"David Diaz is back on the comeback trail and we're very happy to be hosting his next fight," said Hitz Boxing Founder, Bobby Hitz. "He's a beloved former world champion from right here in Chicago with plenty left in the tank for another run at the top."

Diaz's career has been plagued by inactivity since losing the title, but Hitz says that's about to change.

"David has agreed to appear on a number of our shows in the coming months, so we're all very happy to be able to play a role in his journey to once again wearing a championship belt. We're looking forward to another terrific night of boxing at the premier Las Vegas-style casino in the Midwest."

Diaz's opponent and undercard matches will be announced shortly.

The high-class atmosphere and luxurious surroundings the Horseshoe has to offer make their boxing shows a Las Vegas-style night of boxing that Chicago-area fans don't have to get on a plane to enjoy. 

The Horseshoe Casino has an intimate, comfortable venue with luxurious seats, a spectacular gaming area, free parking, exquisite food and all the amenities -- and is just 20 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Tickets for "Fight Night at the Horseshoe" will go on sale soon.