Erickson Lubin knows that his bout with Vergil Ortiz Jr. on Saturday night may not bring him a world title - but it could bring something even more valuable. The Orlando southpaw believes a victory would finally earn him the respect that many fans and critics have withheld since his stunning first-round knockout loss to Jermell Charlo nine years ago.
“It’s given me a whole bunch of motivation,” Lubin told The Ring. “I’ve been doing this for so long, and I feel like I fought the top guys. I never said no to an opponent. Some do respect me, but I just feel like it’s time for a big win. Beating Ortiz, I feel like I’ll get the respect that I’m looking for.”
Lubin faces Ortiz in a 12-round main event at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, streaming live on DAZN. Ortiz enters as a 9-1 favorite, but Lubin is confident his experience and determination can turn the odds.
Since his 2017 loss to Charlo, Lubin has gone 9-1, with his only defeat coming in a thrilling 2022 war with Sebastian Fundora. He rebounded with back-to-back wins over Jesus Ramos and Ardreal Holmes Jr., becoming the IBF mandatory challenger before opting to face Ortiz for a larger payday.
“I feel like I’m one of the top 154s,” Lubin said. “People say my time has passed, but I’m just entering my prime. Vergil Ortiz is young and on fire, and that’s going to bring the best out of me.”
Now 30, Lubin believes this fight is more than just another challenge — it’s his defining moment. “I feel great. This right here is more like judgment day for both of us,” he said.
Confident and focused, Lubin promises fireworks in Texas. “I feel better than ever, and I feel like the fans are in for a treat November 8.”
Image Credit: Golden Boy