Joan Guzman (28-0, 17 KOs) is in his native Dominican Republic to take on World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedelatin lightweight champion Ameth Diaz (25-7, 19 KOs) of Panama this Saturday, Dec. 20, from El Palacio de los Deportes in Guzman’s hometown of Santo Domingo.

The 12-round fight is promoted by Jay Boxing Promotions and will be Guzman’s first since outpointing Soto last November.  The bout also serves as a WBA lightweight title eliminator.

The fight will be available on DIRECTV Channel 434 and DISH NETWORK Channel 844 (please check local listings for time in your area).

Quotes from Thursday’s press conference at El Palacio de los Deportes in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Here is what Guzman had to say:

JOAN GUZMAN

“I’m on pace to make weight and on Saturday night Diaz is going to be surprised at how good I really am.  I’m here to make a statement to the world.  Joan Guzman, the undefeated champion is back.

“I’m at 136 pounds right bow, one pound above the lightweight limit.  This is a message to the boxing community that I am back.

“This fight is particularly special because it is in my hometown where my fans have always treated my well.

“I’m extremely happy with how training camp wrapped up.  We went back to some of the old stuff that I used to do when I was younger.  I felt like a kid again.

“I’m really excited to give my hometown fans a great show.  I won here in 2006 against Antonio Davis and I’ll win again on Saturday.”