The IBF has mandated that new junior lightweight titleholder Anthony Cacace of Northern Ireland must immediately begin negotiations to defend his belt against mandatory contender Eduardo Nunez.
Nunez, promoted by Matchroom, is fresh off a second-round TKO of former featherweight title contender Oscar Escandon. He was already the mandatory challenger for Cordina before Cordina was stopped by Cacace in the eighth round last Saturday.
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IBF Champions Chairman Carlos Ortiz Jr. confirmed that Cacace inherits the mandatory obligation from Cordina. He stated that negotiations must be completed by June 22, and if an agreement isn't reached by then, the IBF will proceed with a purse bid.
Cacace, is coming off a hero's homecoming celebration but must now face the reality of defending his title against a formidable opponent. The 35-year-old champion will need to prepare for a likely showdown with Nunez, a relentless power puncher determined to claim the junior lightweight crown.
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