JOHNSTON READY TO GET BACK INTO ACTION
By Moncayo Blackbull (Click picture for larger view)

DENVER, COLO. (InsideBoxing.com October 2, 2005) - Former WBC lightweight champion Stevie Johnston has not fought since losing to Juan Lazcano September 13, 2003 but is ready to make his return to the ring on October 15.

Johnston first won the WBC world champion on March 1, 1997 when he traveled to Paris, France and defeated Jean Baptiste Mendy. Johnston defended the crown three times before losing it to Cesar Bazan on June 13, 1998. Johnston regained his title on February 27, 1999 in a rematch. He would defend the title four times against Aldo Rios, Angel Manfredy, Billy Schwer and Julio Alvarez before losing it to Jose Luis Castillo on June 17, 2000 by majority decision. Johnston would try to regain his title in a rematch held in his home town of Denver, Colorado only to have the fight end in a draw.

The 33 year old Johnston from Denver, Colorado has not fought in over two years but has not been completely out of the game. He has since revamped his entire boxing portfolio with the goal of regaining his world title.

Johnston no longer promoted by Bob Arum and Top rank, he filed for arbitration against his former manager Cameron Dunkin and the two have now parted ways, Johnston fired trainer George Durbin and hired James “Buddy” McGirt and his career now being guided by Silver Hawk Boxing.

Johnston has been training in Florida with McGirt for months as he prepares for his comeback fight which is anticipated to be on the same card headlining WBC Continental Americas light heavyweight champion Prince Badi Ajamu. The event scheduled to be held at the UCF Arena, Kissimmee, Florida.

The name of the opponent has not been identified nor has Johnston officially been declared part of the card.

Don’t look for Johnston to be matched with any top 10 contender on his first fight back but knowing “Lil but Bad” it won’t take him long to get back into championship form.