(Orange, CA)  One week prior to his next challenge, former two-time lightweight champion Julio Diaz reports himself ready as he closes training camp in Indio, California, where he readied himself to face Herman Ngoudjo in a junior welterweight main event next Friday, May 14, live on ESPN, from the Star of the Desert Arena in Primm, NV.

Eager to prove the boxing world that he must be considered as an elite contender, Julio “The Kidd” Diaz  (36-6, 26 KOs), finished up eight weeks of hard work under the watchful eye of his brother and trainer Joel Diaz.

“I feel ready and very strong, I probably had the best training camp for my upcoming fight and I am happy of how things worked out,” said Julio Diaz during his last sparring session. “Very seldom one has that conviction, and I am more than ready for whatever Ngoudjo will bring to the ring next week.”

Having lost his last two fights, against Victor Cayo (7-31-2009) and Rolando Reyes (4-4-2009), Julio Diaz is seeking redemption in 2010 and has the burning desire to prove himself worthy of another title shot.

“I should have never lost those two fights last year, I have no excuses, but I’ve learned a lot in the process,” said Diaz. “This is a great opportunity and I intend to capitalize on it. I know in my heart that I can go against the best in the jr. welter division, but I have to prove it next week.”

Herman Ngoudjo (18-3, 10 KOs), has yet to wear the crown of champion. The native of Cameroon now residing in Montreal, Canada, has come close, losing tight decisions to former champions Jose Luis Castillo, Paul Malignaggi and Juan Urango. With those experiences in the rear-view mirror, Ngoudjo's team feels he is ready to take the next step in his career to the championship level but Diaz stand on his way.

The Diaz – Ngoudjo ten-round main event will headline an evening of boxing action this coming Friday, May 14. Presented by Guilty Boxing in association with Vega Boxing and Thompson Boxing Promotions, the event will be held in The Star of The Desert Arena at Buffalo Bill's Casino & Resort in Primm, Nev. and will be televised by ESPN2's Friday Night Fights at 7pm (PT)/10:00pm (ET).

In the televised co-featured bout, junior-lightweight contender Dominic Salcido of Rialto, Calif. will look to rebound from two recent defeats by the dangerous and unbeaten Guillermo Sanchez of Buffalo, NY. Salcido, (17-2, 9 KOs), was one of the sport's rising stars and is looking to get back on track. At (11-0,5 KOs), Sanchez is out to prove that Salcido has bitten off more than he can chew in his return.

Tickets are $10 and $50. Locals may receive 2-for-1 tickets to select upcoming concerts and sporting events. Those interested may call 1.888.FUNSTOP (1.888.386.7867) for more information and restrictions that may apply. All concerts and sporting events are in the Star of the Desert Arena at Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino.