WBO regulations give the championship committee authority to extend the deadline for a mandatory defense so its champion can participate in a unification. This provision leaves Bentley’s team with reason to believe McKenna will receive priority. The organization can approve the fight on the condition that Hernandez challenges the winner next.
Bentley’s preference is easy to understand. McKenna brings the IBF belt, substantial Irish support, and a style that should produce sustained exchanges. Hernandez offers two amateur world championships, difficult timing, and almost no ticket-selling power in Britain or Ir
