Boxing: Rigondeaux set to clash with Agbeko

ATLANTIC CITY - Cuba's Guillermo Rigondeaux makes his return to the ring Saturday (Sunday, PHL time) for the first time since his dominating victory earlier this year over Nonito Donaire.

Seven months after his career-best victory, the undefeated Rigondeaux will be defending his World Boxing Association super bantamweight title against former two-time champ Joseph Agbeko Saturday (Sunday, PHL time) at the Boardwalk Hall venue.

The 33-year-old Rigondeaux (12-0, eight knockouts) easily defeated Donaire by a unanimous decision in April and will be looking for another strong performance against veteran Agbeko.

"I am very pleased to have the opportunity to end 2013 the way I opened it up, with surprise and pure boxing class for the world to see," said Rigondeaux.

"Joseph Agbeko is a great champion, and I believe all fans will be pleased with the type of performance we will both exhibit to end a great year of boxing. I believe Agbeko will come prepared, ready to engage and be very aggressive."

Rigondeaux fashioned a superb amateur career that included 400 wins and just 12 losses. As a professional, he compiled an undefeated record with the help of his superb counter-punching and defensive skills. He is also considered one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the sport.

Ghana's Agbeko comes into the fight after a long layoff as he has won just once since 2010. He is also fighting for the second time since December 2011 when he lost a decision to Abner Mares.

"This is going to be a great fight. I'm extremely motivated. I plan to make my country proud by becoming world champion again after I defeat Rigondeaux," said Agbeko, who has 29 wins and four losses.

Agbeko's resume includes previous victories over Vic Darchinyan and Luis Perez.

Undefeated Glen Tapia takes on fellow American James Kirkland on the undercard. - AFP