Boxing News: Jason Litzau Returns to ESPN2

BLOOMFIELD, NJ (July 11, 2006) – Undefeated featherweight contender Jason Litzau can finally focus on his July 14 opponent—hopefully. Litzau is expected to headline the ESPN2’s Friday Night Fights broadcast from Harrah's Rincon in Rincon, CA against 43-bout Reynosa, TAM, Mexico veteran Nicky Bentz. But since Litzau has witnessed two opponents pull out in the past two weeks—Marcos Ramirez and Jorge Martinez—one can’t blame him for feeling exasperated by the recent game of musical opponents

“Although it is frustrating that my opponent has changed three times in the last 10 days, I understand that this happens in the sport of boxing,” Litzau said. “I am in the best physical shape ever for this fight, and I am mentally ready for whoever shows up in the ring.  I know that this is an important opportunity to show the ESPN audience that I am a much better fighter than the one they saw last year against John Nolasco.

“The man I expect to see in the ring this Friday is Nicky Bentz. I respect his experience, his 36 wins with 29 KO's. One of his losses was a disputed decision to former world champion Johnny Tapia, so, I know he can fight. Whatever happens on Friday I guarantee I will give an entertaining performance for the fans.”

The 23-year-old Litzau (18-0, 16 KOs) has stopped six opponents within the first two rounds. On July 15, 2005, “The American Boy” captured a split-decision victory over John Nolasco on ESPN2’s Friday Night Fights broadcast. The bout was selected by ESPN.com as one of 12 “Unforgettable Bouts” from 2005.  In his last bout on May 11, 2006, Litzau crushed Debind Thapa (KO 3).

Bentz (36-5-2, 29 KOs) lost a controversial 10-round split-decision to former world champion and future Hall of Famer Johnny Tapia.

ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights” broadcast will begin at 9:00 pm ET.

Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased by calling 1-866-468-3399, or by visiting www.harrahs.com.