The light-heavyweight division is one that has been under the spotlight during 2024, as Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol went toe-to-toe in the first ever four-belt undisputed title contest at 175lbs. Now, Matchroom Boxing have announced that they have signed a contender at the weight who looks set to challenge for a light-heavyweight world title during 2025.
Beterbiev and Bivol engaged in tactical warfare in Riyadh last month, with Beterbiev doing enough to claim a legendary yet controversial majority-decision victory in the eyes of the judges, much to the disappointment of Bivol.
As a result of their razor-tight first encounter, demands for a rematch between Beterbiev and Bivol seem to have been answered and it is widely expected that the pair will meet again during 2025 – although it is not expected to be for the undisputed crown this time around.
Instead, Beterbiev has been ordered to defend his titles against lesser-known IBF mandatory challenger, Michael Eifert, and it is assumed by many that the Russian will opt to vacate the IBF strap rather than go ahead with the fight.
If the 39-year-old does decide to drop the belt, Eifert will likely face off with the next highest ranked IBF contender for the vacant world title – which is presently world Australia’s Conor Wallace (14-1).
Today it has been confirmed that Wallace has signed a promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing in partnership with Goldstar Promotions and Tasman Fighters ahead of his potential shot at world honours, which Wallace described as his ‘ultimate goal’ following the announcement.
“I’m very excited,”
“I’ve dreamt about being a World Champion since I was a young boy. That is my ultimate goal.”
Meanwhile, world-renowned promoter of Matchroom Boxing, Eddie Hearn, piled further plaudits on the 28-year-old southpaw.
“This is a fantastic signing for us – and one we are thrilled to be working alongside Mick Francis at Tasman Fighters and Spencer Brown at Goldstar.
“There is no denying Conor’s ability and certainly it is going to be hard to stop him. I can see an incredibly bright future for him in the ring and there are many big fights ahead in a division that promises to deliver more fireworks in 2025.”
Finally, Mick Francis of Tasman Fighters, who has promoted Wallace throughout his career, spoke of his delight at the partnership and looked forward to future fights as the A-side around the world.
“I can’t think of a better partnership in boxing and gives Conor the opportunity to fight here in Australia and around the world as the home side. We are all looking forward to the future.”
Before Wallace can focus on any possible world title showdown against Eifert, he must first retain his world ranking by overcoming undefeated South African Asemahle Wellem (7-0-1) as he headlines a card on his Matchroom debut on Wednesday, December 11th in Australia.
Also appearing on the bill is highly-rated heavyweight Justis Huni (10-0), who is ranked as the #5 contender with the WBO and faces off with Argentina’s Leandro Daniel Robutti (11-6) in the co-main event.
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