Weekend title fight action: Joseph Diaz vs. Shavkatzon Rakhimov - Patrick Teixeira fights Brian Castano

Last year, Joseph “Jojo” Diaz achieved his boyhood dream of winning a world championship.

After coming up short in two other championship attempts, Diaz ignored a marked-up eye to decision Tevin Farmer and win the IBF junior lightweight title.

This Saturday night at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, Diaz (31-1, 15 KOs) will make the first defense of his belt against Shavkatdzhon Rakimov (15-0, 12 KOs).

A few months ago, it looked like Diaz would be fighting Farmer in a rematch. He was all for it, having talked himself into the first fight. The rematch never materialized.

The IBF ordered Diaz to face fellow southpaw Rakimov.

“Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov is a very good fighter who is highly ranked throughout the world,” Diaz said when the fight was announced a few months ago. “I know he’s been aching for a world title shot, but I’m ready to go out there and showcase that I’m willing to fight the best and defend my title with whoever wants to step in that ring with me.”

Rakhimov, 26, picked up the IBO super featherweight title in his 11th professional fight, defending it three times. He’s tough, durable, strong, and determined.

“I’ve been waiting for this chance for a long time,” Rakhimov said. “Thank you for this opportunity to my team. My training camp is a long one but very good. I will do my best to win this fight.”

Diaz, 30, has won five bouts in a row since his lone loss, a decision to talented Gary Russell Jr.

“In my first main event on DAZN, I’m going to show to the world that I am the biggest threat at 130 pounds and a household name,” said Diaz. “Not only am I doing this for myself, but I’m also doing this for my family. Come Feb. 13, I’m going to shine. It’s my time!”

In the co-main event, gutsy Patrick Teixeira (31-1, 22 KOs) defends his WBO junior middleweight crown for the first time against Brian Castano in a 12-round affair.

“I am very confident about this fight against Brian Castaño,” said Teixeira. “I am ready to defeat him and keep my title. The fight will be a war. It will be a bit show for all the boxing fans.”

Underdog Teixeira showed phenomenal intestinal fortitude last year in his title-winning effort against previously undefeated Carlos Adames. With his face a bloody mess, Teixeira battled back from the brink to floor Adames in round seven. The knockdown proved to be the difference in the all-action bout.

Castano is favored but it would be foolish to count out Teixeira.