By Ryan Burton

When Orlando "Orlandito" Del Valle (16-0) steps in the ring on September 29th he will face the toughest opponent of his career. He will take on former world champion Vic Darchinyan (37-5-1) on a special edition of HBO's Boxing After Dark series.

Del Valle knows that Darchinyan has a huge edge in experience but feels that he is ready for the fight.

"I know many fans asked why did I take this fight with only 16 fights on my resume. Here's my answer," Del Valle told BoxingScene.com. "The boxing world needs nothing but fireworks and great fights. If I want to be the best I have to fight the best and the time is now."

The Puerto Rican fighter feels that his amateur career has helped prepare him for the challenge that his opponent presents.  He also thinks that a win over a name such as Darchinyan will lead to bigger opportunities sooner rather than later.

"I had a very extensive amateur career and I am physically and mentally ready. I am not looking past Darchinyan but after this fight whatever my manager Raymond Rivera and my promoter Lou DiBella bring on board, I'm in as long as it make senses to everybody involved.  Especially the boxing fans," Del Valle revealed.

He finished our conversation with this message for the fans.

"I want to thanks everyone for supporting me and a special thanks to all my fans in New York. I love you.  New York is my home away from home. If someone like to stay tune a little closer follow me @orlanditoboxing on Twitter."

Send questions or comments to ringsidewriter@gmail.com Follow Ryan on Twitter @ringsidewriter and tune in to The Boxing Lab, BoxingScene's official audio on Tuesdays. The show is hosted by Ernie Gabion, Luis Sandoval and Ryan Burton