World Boxing Assn. junior-middleweight champion Vinny Pazienza...

World Boxing Assn. junior-middleweight champion Vinny Pazienza says two fractured vertebrae in his neck, the result of a Nov. 12 auto accident, will not keep him from fighting again.

“I’m the champion of the world right now and I’m going to remain that way for a very long time,” Pazienza said.

Pazienza’s upper body is immobilized by a medical device known as a halo apparatus, but he said: “Next time you see me I’ll be in the ring defending my title.”