By Mark Vester

 

BoxingScene.com has learned that the IBF is pushing for Joshua Clottey to make a mandatory defense of his welterweight title against the highest available challenger, which is number 3 rated Isaac Hlatshwayo. Clottey has already signed to fight WBO champion Miguel Cotto on June 13 at New York's Madison Square Garden. The IBF sent a letter to Top Rank [promoters of Clottey and Cotto] on March 30, which gave them and Branco Milenkovic, promoter for Hlatshwayo, until April 30 to reach a deal or the fight will head to a purse bid.

 

The situation is similar to what happened last year, when Antonio Margarito was the IBF champion and about to have a unification bout with Cotto [WBA champ at the time]. Margarito dropped the belt, which Clottey eventually won in a bout with Zab Judah. In all likelihood, Clottey will vacate the title and move forward with the Cotto fight. The IBF says Clottey was due to make his mandatory defense on or before February 2.

 

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