by Francisco Salazar

Former world title challenger, Michael "Hammer Fist" Farenas (42-5-4, 34 KOs), was victorious in his comeback fight at the "Fight Club OC" card in Costa Mesa, CA, winning by third round KO over Mexico's Martin Angel Martinez (17-12-1, 11 KOs).

From the opening round Farenas was the aggressor, as he came forward landing his signature over hand left, which dropped Martinez midway through round one.  As the fight went on, Farenas continued to land his overhand left, wearing down Martinez.  In round three, Farenas landed a barrage of punches that send Martinez to the canvas for good.  The knockout happened at the 2:04 mark of round three.

"I felt very good going into this fight and it showed in my performance," said Michael Farenas.  "I felt I gave the fans the fans a great show.  My goal now is to get back into world title contention in the lightweight division.  I feel much stronger at this weight.  I'm hoping to get back in the ring by the end of the summer."

Farenas, who will turn 33 on June 10, had not fought since knocking out journeyman Vachayan Khamon on October 31 of 2015.

In July of 2012, Farenas challenged WBA World junior lightweight titleholder Takashi Uchiyama, but the fight ended in a technical draw in the third round.

After losing his next bout to Yuriorkis Gamboa, Farenas would win his next five bouts. In a world title elimination bout in April of 2014, Farenas would lose a decision to then-unbeaten Jose Pedraza.

Martinez just fought on May 20, losing an eight round unanimous decision to Max Becerra. He has lost six of his last eight bouts. 

Francisco A. Salazar has written for Boxingscene.com since September of 2012 and has covered boxing in Southern California and abroad since 2000. Francisco also covers boxing for the Ventura County (Calif.) Star newspaper, RingTV.com, and Knockout Nation. He can be reached by email at santio89@yahoo.com or on Twitter at FSalazarBoxing