The IBF has begun the formal process to fill its vacant super middleweight title by reaching out to Pavel Silyagin regarding a potential fight with Osleys Iglesias.
Both camps have been given three days to confirm whether they will proceed. Early signals from representatives on each side suggest a willingness to move forward. The sanctioning body will open negotiations once written confirmation is received.
The opening exists because Troy Williamson is no longer available. His December knockout of Callum Simpson carried a rematch clause, which Simpson has since exercised. That second fight is now expected to take place in the UK in May.
Williamson’s removal forced the IBF to work down its rankings. Silyagin, rated seventh, was the next eligible contender willing to engage. Several more prominent names were bypassed due to scheduling and divisional priorities. Hamzah Sheeraz is weighing title options at junior middleweight. Jaime Munguia remains in talks regarding a WBA opportunity. Saul Alvarez is not expected to return before September and is not pursuing the IBF belt.
Silyagin has competed exclusively in Russia since turning professional in 2020. His record includes a September 2023 draw against Evgeny Shvedenko, followed by three straight wins. His most recent outing was a ten round decision over Pablo Exequiel Corzo in July.
Iglesias earned mandatory position with an eighth round stoppage of Vladimir Shishkin last September in Montreal. The Cuban southpaw is based in Berlin and is managed by Eye of the Tiger.
The title became vacant after Terence Crawford retired in December. Of the belts he relinquished at super middleweight, the IBF and WBC remain unassigned. The WBA title was awarded to Jose Armando Resendiz on January 1 following an interim elevation.
This is the point where theory gives way to obligation, and Iglesias is now close enough that declining him carries consequences.
Click here to subscribe to our FREE newsletter
Related Boxing News:
Last Updated on 01/16/2026
Read the full article here
