By Edward Chaykovsky

IBF super middleweight champion Carl Froch says the ball is in Mikkel Kessler's court for a possible rematch. If a deal is not reached with Kessler by January 15th, then Froch will be forced to face his mandatory, Adonis Stevenson of Canada. Kessler won a twelve round decision over Froch in 2010. Froch is holding out hope that a rematch will take place in May or June of this year.

"I really don't know what the delay is. I can't speak for Mikkel," said Froch to the Nottingham Post. "Everything is in place for what will be the biggest fight in Britain for the last ten years. It is the fight everybody wants. The television companies are happy and we have a couple of options on venues. He has been made an offer so it is all down to him and his promoter now.

"The ball is in his court and I'm waiting to hear some news from my promoter Eddie Hearn asap. Mikkel was talking about a re-match anytime, anywhere, so I'm hopeful. But, if he does pull out, I'll be phoning him and calling him chicken."