By Rick Reeno
krikya360.com has been advised that WBO featherweight champion Juan Manuel Lopez (30-1, 27KOs) is still waiting for a finalized opponent for his scheduled return on October 1 at the Coliseo Ruben Rodriguez in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. There have been discussions to secure Mike Oliver, but his management is not happy with the money being offered - which I've heard is actually higher than what Oliver would have received for a previous deal to face Orlando Salido in July [Oliver withdrew]. Alternative options are being explored - if Oliver's side doesn't budge on the purse.
Speaking of Salido (36-11-2, 24KOs), the WBO featherweight champion is looking to squeeze in a second defense in the month of November in Mexico. Provided both fighters win, a rematch between Juanma and Salido is being targeted for the first quarter of 2012. Salido stopped Juanma in the seventh round of their April fight.