By Victor Salazar 

New York, NY - Not many out there are given undefeated lightweight William Silva (23-0, 14 KO’s) a chance to upset hot Puerto Rican prospect Felix Verdejo later tonight at the Theater in Madison Square Garden. To add insult to his odds, Verdejo already has date set up in April to fight in Puerto Rico with another return likely due in June in New York on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade.

Verdejo, along with WBO junior welterweight champion Terence Crawford, are the A-side stars of the HBO televised doubleheader in New York but don’t tell that to the Brazilian lightweight who looks to upset the rising Puerto Rican star’s plans.

“People can say what they want,” Silva told BoxingScene.com through his translator. “23-0 and 2 time Latin American champ that speaks for itself.”

Silva was on Verdejo’s last undercard and says he sees the talent but says he will be Verdejo’s toughest fight to date.

“He’s a great fighter but he hasn’t fought any good fighters yet,” Silva stated. “I’ll be his toughest fight to date. I’ve had tough fights before in Argentina but I think Felix will be one of my toughest fights too.”

Much has been made about his height creating issues for Verdejo, but Silva says his will to win - and not his height - will be the deciding factor in his quest for victory.

“Verdejo fought tall guys in the amateurs and did well with them. But I came here to win and I do expect to have a good fight but I want to stress that I came here to win and my will is the key to victory.”