Pagan, 13-0 (4 KOs), enters the bout with hopes of solidifying himself as an emerging up-and-comer. Pagan has notable victories with wins over unbeaten Roger Hilley and veteran Haskell Rhodes. Pagan, a 25-year-old from Grand Rapids, Michigan, last fought in June, winning a unanimous decision over James Bernadin, and has spent the majority of his career fighting at or around the lightweight limit.