The World Boxing Association have ordered a bout between their two featherweight champions Leo Santa Cruz and Leigh Wood.
The Mexican holds the ‘Super’ version at 126lbs while the Brit is the owner of the WBA’s secondary strap. Requesting a fight to be made between Santa Cruz and Wood is part of the Association’s ‘Reduction plan’ to have only one champion represent them in each division.
In a statement they said, “Both teams will have 30 days to negotiate the bout from the moment the communication was sent to them Wednesday, April 6.
“In case they do not reach an agreement or any of the parties refuses to close the negotiation, the WBA Championships Committee may open the bout to purse bid pursuant to its rules.”
Wood, who defended his title with a stunning 12 th round knockout over Michael Conlan last month, replied with the word “Ready” on social media to the WBA’s move.
Should Santa Cruz vacate the title then the governing body may choose to elevate Wood to full champion status.
IBF champion Josh Warrington has already indicated that he would like to unify the division against Santa Cruz in Las Vegas.