Carl Froch 'very close' to agreeing Mikkel Kessler rematch

[KrisSilver]

Carl Froch 'very close' to agreeing Mikkel Kessler rematch

www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/20962213


A rematch between Carl Froch and Mikkel Kessler is "very close" to being agreed for May at London's O2 Arena.

Nottingham's three-time world super-middleweight champion Froch was outpointed by Kessler in 2010.

And according to a source in Froch's camp he is prepared to relinquish his IBF title in order to make a return match with his Danish rival happen.

The IBF has ordered Froch to defend his title against Canadian Adonis Stevenson or be stripped of the belt.

Both parties were invited to negotiate and 15 January imposed as the deadline. If at that time the parties are unable to reach an agreement a purse bid will be held.

However, Froch's camp are hopeful a deal with Kessler can be done before then.

Kessler, 33, is the WBA's 'world' champion which ostensibly would give Froch, 35, the chance to become a four-time world champion.

However, American Andre Ward is the WBA's 'super' champion, meaning Froch-Kessler II would not be for a world title in the strictest sense.

The news that Froch-Kessler II is close to being agreed suggests Lucian Bute, who was destroyed by Froch in May, has opted not to trigger the rematch clause in his contract.

[yoz]

IBF shooting themselves in the foot.

It effectively rules out a Bute rematch, too.

[BattlingNelson]

Great if it's in London.

I can't see it not being for the IBF belt as well as the WBA 'regular' belt as the IBF has said they will give an exemption for this fight.

[The Weebler II]

Interview with Hearn from earlier today, talks about Froch-Kessler from 3:30 mins

[AM Boxing5]

Great Fight.

The fight needs to be in the UK not in Denmark.

Froch wins by KO