About a week away from his next ring return, Puerto Rican fighter Félix 'El Diamante' Verdejo says the move to hire veteran coach Ismael Salas and the change of environment was the right decision.

Verdejo intends to clear up the lingering doubts that circulate about his future in boxing, when he faces Mexico's Manuel Rey Rojas during the event that will take place at the Turning Stones Resort and Casino in Verona, New York, on January 18.

“I feel very happy with the work that was done. I'm crazy about getting in the ring, because it's been nine months since I was last in there,” Verdejo said to Carlos Gonzalez.

Verdejo has been out of the ring since April 2019 when he beat Bryan Vasquez by unanimous decision. In the interim, he began his separation from his former coach and former manager Ricky Márquez.

“I am developing to enter the stage where high caliber fights will come. I'm happy, I'm doing everything I can to get the victory,” Verdejo said.

Verdejo (25-1, 16 KOs) explained that Salas realized the technical areas that were crucial to attend to and improve.

“(He) always teaches me something. There were some mistakes I made and other details that the coach sees and corrects. He has a incredible view for that. I had never experienced them. He is detailed in the sense of having a critical eye,” Verdejo said.

Verdejo explained that Salas emphasized the correct way he should use the straight lines with his right hand.

“I was pulling without direction, to the side. He taught me to use my foot a little to direct the blow to the chest. Salas has emphasized to plant the feet well, use more of the waist and I concentrate on the balance of the body," Verdejo mentioned.