Junior welterweight Hendri Cedeno hopes that a victory over Idalberto Umara will pave the way for bigger fights.

One potential matchup could be against Kevin Brown, who will fight on Friday night’s card at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida.

Cedeno, 15-0 (11 KOs), is taking part in his first 10-round bout as the 26-year-old from the Dominican Republic believes opportunities are on the horizon.

“I think I’m close to a big fight, especially after a few more quality wins against guys like Idalberto Umara, who has fought very tough guys,” Cedeno told BoxingScene.

Umara, 13-3 (9 KOs), won a bounce-back fight in September, but lost a competitive split decision while flooring Brown in May, with Cedeno watching on in the venue.

“It was a very close fight. Brown won a split decision and it could have gone either way,” Cedeno said. “I thought Brown won, but it was close. I’m looking to beat Umara in better fashion, but I’m going to let the fight come to me.”

Cedeno also shared that he is open to meeting Brown if it were offered.

“Absolutely, Brown is a top contender and a fight with him will be very entertaining,” Cedeno said. “We both fight with the same promoter so that fight will be easy to make. I’m ready for anyone, including Kevin Brown.”

Cedeno called the adjustment from eight rounds business as usual, citing only a few differences.

“I’ve worked hard to get into the position to fight 10 rounds and I feel confident I’ll be able to handle the extra rounds,” Cedeno said. “We’ve picked up the pace in sparring, going rounds with fresher guys to help push me in the later rounds.”

Cedeno trains in Reading, Pennsylvania, with his trainer Dennis Rivera. Umara is a 23-year-old Cuban who now lives in Miami. Cedeno, without missing a beat, said, “If I get him hurt, I’m going for the knockout.”