Diaz vs Lucero; A Classic Crossroads Contest

Tacoma, WA (May 30, 2012) – When a rising star faces a grizzled veteran, one of boxing’s oldest storylines comes into play.

Whether it’s on a show in small venue or a 50,000 seat arena, fight fans from all four corners of the globe love these matchups. Throughout boxing history, up and coming pugilists tested their skills against the old mongoose looking to make a final run before exploring ventures outside of the squared circle.

On Saturday, June 2, featherweight phenom Joel Diaz of Palmdale, CA puts his perfect record on the line against ultra-experienced Emmanuel “The Butcher” Lucero in Tacoma, WA at the Emerald Queen Casino.

Tickets from $25 are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets or by visiting the EQC box office.

Topping Halquist Productions’ “Battle at the Boat 87”, Diaz is taking a big step up in competition in when he goes ten rounds against a foe that’s faced many of the top fighters in his weight class.

Lucero, 23-10-1 (14 KO’s), is most recognized for challenging all-time great Manny Pacquiao in 2003, but his impressive resume expands far beyond facing the Filipino icon. Born in Mexico City and based in Scranton, PA, Lucero also battled three world champions, four title challengers and eight unbeaten opponents, going the distance with six of them.

With 213 professional rounds under his belt compared to Diaz’ 22, he’s understandably considered a live underdog.

“Lucero is a fearless fighter who’s proven time and time again that he’s willing to face anybody,” said promoter Brian Halquist. “His resume speaks for itself and he’s the kind of fighter that will get the best out of Joel Diaz. These are the kind of matches that bring excitement to the sport of boxing and epitomize what entertainment value is!”

Appearing in separate undercard bouts are crowd favorites Nate Serrano, Sarah Pucek, Marcellno Pindeda, Josh Hewson and Jesus Partida.

Doors open at 6 pm and the opening bell is scheduled for 7.

During the last 23 years, Halquist Productions built a reputation in the boxing world for their loyalty, honesty and integrity. In 1997, Halquist Productions ran their inaugural “Battle at the Boat” series, which remains successful to this day. Halquist Productions promoted many world title bouts and their fight cards have been seen on ESPN, HBO and Showtime.

Hope its televised but Lucero is pretty much a punching bag at this point. Diaz is bright green and hittable but with a cool head, he should take this.

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Originally Posted by Spicoli

Hope its televised but Lucero is pretty much a punching bag at this point. Diaz is bright green and hittable but with a cool head, he should take this.

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Yes Lucero is a long ways off from a crossroads fight. He's a tough scrappy lil bastard, but good God does he square up and throw some looping shots that often lead him open to brutal counters.

He's all heart and aggression, but he's an opponent these days.