Pedraza-Dib IBF Title Clash in Play For March 28th

By Miguel Rivera

According to unbeaten Puerto Rican contender Jose "Sniper" Pedraza, it's almost a certainty that he's facing former champion Billy Dib for the vacant super featherweight world title of the International Boxing Federation (IBF) on March 28th, likely in Las Vegas.

The date of March 28 was reserved last month by Warriors Boxing and Goossen Promotions for a Haymon Boxing card. It's unknown which network will televise the show. Pedraza, who is promoted by Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo, signed with Haymon several weeks ago.

Pedraza (19-0, 12KOs), holder of the IBO world title, is the mandatory challenger to the IBF belt. Champion Rancés Barthelemy recently announced his intention to move up to 135 pounds. The number two position in the rankings is vacant. Numbers three and four were unavailable to take the fight. Dib (30-3 23KO's) is ranked at five.

"It's almost 99 percent certain we will face Billy Dib. He's the one who's available at this time. Other potential rivals such as Francisco Vargas already have commitments [and are unable to fight for the vacant belt]," Pedraza told El Vocero. "Right now I am the mandatory challenger and I will be fighting for the world title with my next opponent. There's talk about the fight taking place on March 28 in Las Vegas. We are very excited about the idea."