By Jesus Lopez

Looking to face the best of his division has always been a priority for three-time world champion, Erik "El Terrible" Morales, who in his quest to win his fourth divisional world title, was denied a victory by the judges in April when he faced Marcos Maidana in Las Vegas. The pride of Tijuana, Baja California, is preparing to return to the ring by August, either in Las Vegas or Mexico City. He notes the refusal of Maidana for a rematch, awaits a response from Britain's Amir Khan for a future clash, and wants a shot at the current IBF lightweight champion Miguel "Puppet" Vazquez.

Erik Morales is in Mazatlan, Sinaloa for a weekend show being co-promoted by his company Box Latino, and Golden Boy Promotions. He has two proposals on the table. One of them is English boxer Amir Khan, who seems to be the preferred option, and the other is Vazquez.

"Morales wanted a rematch with Maidana, but [Maidana] said he wouldn't be ready for the date being offered by HBO, July 30. And also he is asking a lot of money, which is not available," said Eric Gomez, matchmaker for Golden Boy Promotions. "Erik said that he wanted to fight with Zab Judah and we're looking at that."