The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has mandated a crucial fight for the vacant world cruiserweight title between Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez and Mairis Briedis.
The IBF has scheduled a bidding hearing on January 16 to determine promotional rights for the bout. Briedis‘ team opted for an immediate bidding hearing instead of a negotiation period, following contact between both parties on December 20.
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According to IBF Rule 9C, both fighters must respect the ordered match and bidding hearing to avoid disciplinary actions.
Ramirez (45-1, 30 KO) is set to face Briedis (28-2, 20 KO) in a bid to become the first Mexican cruiserweight world champion.
Bidding process has been initiated
The IBF has ordered the fight and initiated a bidding process for promoters on January 16. This vacant title opportunity arose when Jai Opetaia from Sydney chose a non-title fight against Ellis Zorro on December 23 instead of a mandatory title defense.
Opetaia (24-0, 19 KOs) had previously been ordered to face Briedis in a rematch of their July 2022 encounter, won by Opetaia via unanimous decision.
Briedis (28-2, 20 KOs) aims to secure a fourth cruiserweight title after winning his first in April 2017. His journey includes participation in the World Boxing Super Series, where he won the WBO cruiserweight title and secured a controversial victory over Krzysztof Glowacki.
His reign ended with a loss to Opetaia, who defended the title once with a knockout over Jordan Thompson. Briedis, a former three-time cruiserweight champion, agreed not to oppose the fight with Zorro, expecting the mandatory bout to proceed within the IBF’s deadline.
Ramirez has only fought once in the cruiserweight division, winning against Joe Smith Jr. in October, but it was sufficient to secure a high ranking and a title shot. Both fighters are obligated to adhere to the IBF’s ruling or face disciplinary consequences.
The scheduled bidding hearing on January 16 will determine the promotional rights for the Ramirez vs Briedis fight. It is crucial for both fighters to respect the outcome, as any deviation could result in a downgrade in rankings and a six-month probation during which they cannot participate in IBF-sanctioned fights.
This upcoming title fight is eagerly anticipated, as Ramirez aims for a historic achievement while Briedis looks to add another chapter to his storied career.
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