The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has scheduled a purse bid for December 12 to determine the promotional rights for the junior lightweight final eliminator between Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov and Eduardo Nunez. This decision follows the failure of both parties to agree on terms during the initial negotiation period mandated by the IBF since October 30.
The winner of this bout will become the mandatory challenger for Joe Cordina, the undefeated two-time and current IBF junior lightweight champion. Cordina (16-0, 9 KOs), may opt for a voluntary title defense during this period. Both Cordina and Nunez are promoted by Matchroom Boxing. Rakhimov (17-1-1, 14 KOs), is affiliated with Titov Boxing but has recently fought on Matchroom shows.
Rakhimov, from Tajikistan, briefly held the IBF title after knocking out Zelfa Barrett in November last year, but lost it to Cordina in April. Nunez, a powerful puncher from Mexico, has a streak of 15 consecutive wins, all by knockout. His latest victory was a remarkable second-round knockout over Oscar Escandon.
The ordered fight between Rakhimov and Nunez is significant for both boxers. Rakhimov has been a top contender in the IBF 130-pound rankings for over four years and became mandatory in 2019 with a knockout win over Azing Fuzile. His career progression was hampered by the pandemic and a draw in a title fight against Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, who was stripped of the belt. Rakhimov then missed a chance for the vacant title due to injury but eventually claimed it against Barrett, albeit for a short reign.
According to IBF rules, both fighters are obliged to commit to this eliminator. Any decision to withdraw will result in a demotion in the rankings and a prohibition from participating in IBF-sanctioned fights for at least six months. This eliminator is a critical juncture for both boxers, determining who will challenge Cordina for the junior lightweight title.
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