WBA Might Order Otabek Kholmatov vs Raymond Ford
The featherweight division may soon crown a new champion. The WBA number one challenger, Otabek Kholmatov (11-0, 10KO), and the second-ranked contender, Raymond “Savage” Ford (14-0-1, 8KO), could be on the verge of a mandated showdown.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has hinted that WBA Regular champion Leigh Wood might vacate the title. If that occurs, it paves the way for Kholmatov and Ford to vie for the vacant championship.
Following his victory over Mauricio Lara in a rematch for the WBA title, Wood found himself obligated to defend the belt against Kholmatov. He was granted permission to face two-time champion Josh Warrington with the condition that the victor would have to face Kholmatov next.
THE TWO DIFFERENT FIGHTING STYLES
In his most recent outing, the hard-hitting Kholmatov dealt Thomas Patrick Ward his first defeat with a fifth-round stoppage.
Savage has been clamoring for a title shot and had his sights set on the winner of the Lara-Wood rematch. On April 8, Ford delivered an outstanding performance against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno.
A potential matchup between these two fighters promises a thrilling encounter, featuring two young, well-rounded, hungry, undefeated southpaw boxers . Kholmatov excels at working behind his jab and expertly maneuvers within the pocket, utilizing angles to his advantage.
On the other hand, Ford possesses exceptional footwork and is particularly adept at transitioning from offense to defense while delivering effective counterpunches.
At the time of writing this article, the WBA has not issued any official statement regarding the situation. However, fans can anticipate news on this unfolding story in the near future.
