The IBF has ordered South Africa’s Sivenathi Nontshinga to defend his title against Japan’s Masamichi Yabuki.
Christian Araneta, from the Philippines is out with an injury, and the next fighter in line for the mandatory light flyweight contest is the No. 2 contender Yabuki.
Regardless of the change of opponent, Nontshinga is prepared for anything that comes his way.
“I feel good, as long as I step inside the ring and defend my world title, you know the aim is to stay active and unify the division and yeah, this fight has been spoken about for a while,” the champion said. “I knew someday I would fight him. In order for me to become the best, I have to fight them and beat them, I am now ready for the world.”
Colin Nathan, Nontshinga’s manager and trainer, received a call from Teiken Promotions last week claiming that WBC and WBA champion Kenshiro Teraji wants to unify, but he might move up.
“I was surprised when I got told that, but it is what it is,” said Nathan. “We will now focus on our mandatory and defending our title. Yabuki, the former WBC world champion hits like a mule and is dangerous, but Sive will prove just how good he is by beating him impressively.”
Of Teraji perhaps looking elsewhere, Nontshinga said: “If they don’t want to fight me, then they must move up and let me take over the division.”
Nontshinga is represented by Matchroom and Yabuki is represented by Lush Midri Promotions. Both parties have until July 19 to conclude negotiations for the fight.