Lateef Kayode and Luis Ortiz to clash in September 11 heavyweight title bout

Las Vegas will be the focus of the boxing world in September 2014, as the city will not only feature the Mayweather-Maidana rematch, its loaded undercard, and a Boxing Expo on September 13, but now will also have a second intriguing fight card just two days prior when unbeaten heavyweights Luis Ortiz and Lateef Kayode meet for a vacant belt at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Only a few years ago, Kayode was a rising, but raw cruiserweight contender trained by Freddie Roach.  Since facing Antonio Tarver -- an opponent who later failed a drug test soon after the fight -- Kayode's career has declined.  This fight presents him with an opportunity to get things back on track.

"I've waited a long time for a fight like this and I feel that this is finally my chance to shine," said the number five-ranked Kayode. "Before Mayweather and Maidana fight on Saturday, I will set the stage for them with a big win and a championship that will have the world talking."

Ortiz versus Kayode is a 12-round bout for the vacant WBA Interim Heavyweight World Title, and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.  The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 6:30 p.m. PT.

"The heavyweight championship has long been the most prestigious title in all of boxing and Luis Ortiz and Lateef Kayode will be bringing it in order to win that belt and put their names in the history books," said Oscar De La Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "This is the perfect way to kick off a great weekend of boxing in Las Vegas."

Tickets start as low as $25.

"A lot of great fighters have come before me and won the heavyweight title and to have the chance to join them is an honor," said the number two-ranked Ortiz. "I will fight my heart out for this championship and I won't disappoint my fans, friends or family."

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com and news services