Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa (25-2-1, 19 KOs), a former two-division world champion, is slated to return to the ring against durable featherweight Joet Gonzalez. This bout is reportedly scheduled for July 19 and is expected to be part of the undercard for Manny Pacquiao`s upcoming comeback fight, according to boxing journalist Dan Rafael.
The fight marks Figueroa`s first appearance since his unanimous decision defeat to Stephen Fulton in February 2023. In that previous encounter, `The Heartbreaker` struggled to impose his style against Fulton`s fluid movement and controlled performance.
Now, Figueroa seems determined to make a significant push in the 126-pound division. He previously held the WBC super-bantamweight title and had a strong start in the featherweight class with notable wins over Mark Magsayo, Carlos Castro, and Jessie Magdaleno. However, the Fulton fight saw him appear less assertive than in previous outings.
At 28, Figueroa is likely eager to demonstrate he remains a top fighter and reclaim his status at the elite level. His opponent, Gonzalez, is a respected contender who has typically only lost to elite competition and is considered a solid test for anyone in the division.
The main event for this Premier Boxing Champions card is anticipated to feature boxing legend Manny Pacquiao facing WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. The card is also rumored to include a highly anticipated super-welterweight rematch between champion Sebastian Fundora and Tim Tszyu, as well as an appearance by dynamic contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, making for a stacked night of boxing action.