Artem Dalakian Must Defend Title Against Luis Concepcion
Several divisions in boxing are in dire need of making a move towards unification. With four champions per division, fans want to know who is the divisional top dog. Hence, WBA “regular” flyweight champion Artem Dalakian (20-0, 14ko) ordered to fight former WBA super flyweight and flyweight interim champion Luis Concepcion (39-8, 28ko) is a clear indication there will be no unification…for now.
WHAT HAPPENED TO THE UNIFICATION?
Those inside the boxing community familiar with the lower weight division were excited after news dropped that Dalakian and WBC champion Julio Cesar Martinez were set to clash in a major unification.
It is a classic match-up of styles. The aggressive nature of the WBC champion versus the technical WBA champion. It was going to be a fan-friendly match-up for the fans. Furthermore, the WBA organization would have probably elevated the 32 year-old Ukrainian to super status for the fight to be an official unification.
THE WBA ORDERS A TITLE DEFENSE
Nonetheless the fight never materialized, leaving Dalakian without a dance partner until now. The WBA has ordered he make a long-overdue title defense.
Concepcion won the WBA Interim title after scoring a big-time eleven-round knockout over Robert Barrera in February 2020. The fighter from Panama was placed in the number one spot and has been waiting on the opportunity to fight for the champion ever since.
The WBA highlights that per their rules. The champion must defend the title against the official contender within nine months from the moment the belt was obtained. To which the WBA champion has not fought a mandatory challenger since knocking out Sarawut Thawornkham back on June 2019.
Furthermore, both teams are given thirty days to iron out a deal before the deadline date of September 18. If neither side can agree on a deal then the fight will go to a purse bid.
If the fight gets made, both men will be entering the ring after an 18-month layoff. 3kingsboxing will continue to monitor this story and provide any further developments.
By: Garrisson Bland
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