By Francisco Salazar

Miguel Vazquez. Antonio DeMarco. Richar Abril.

These are a handful of fighters who have been discussed as possible opponents whom world title belt holder Yuriorkis Gamboa could possibly face later this year.

Including other known lightweights, these are all intriguing bouts for Gamboa. However, there is a lightweight who is not known globally, but could give Gamboa all he could handle.

That fighter is Ivan Redkach.

While some wonder who is Redkach, others may wonder what the Russian-born fighter could give in the ring that would give Gamboa a challenge.

For those who have seen Redkach, the southpaw has an aggressive style, throwing numerous combinations to the head and body. His 12 knockouts in 14 victories reflect what the hard-hitting unbeaten fighter has accomplished.

However, there are those who may question whether Redkach is a serious threat to Gamboa. He has not fought past eight rounds and his most telling victory was in his last bout on February 21st against Sergio Rivera.

Promoter Los DiBella, who promotes Redkach, is confident his fighter can pull off the upset over Gamboa.

The fight may not be far-fetched. DiBella and Gamboa’s promoter, 50 Cent, have done business together in promoting shows. Having their fighters face one another would not be out of the question.

While Gamboa (23-0, 16 KOs) may have the experience factor, he may face a mirror image of himself in Redkach. The Los Angeles resident does hit hard and Gamboa has been on the canvas a number of times throughout his career.

Some media and fans may still not be sold on this fight. However, boxing has seen head-scratching match-ups be put together. If Gamboa-Redkach is ever made, it would not be bad for boxing.

As Larry Merchant has often said, “Boxing is the theatre of the unexpected.”

It just might be in this situation.

Francisco A. Salazar has written for Boxingscene.com since September and has covered boxing in Southern California and abroad since 2000. He also covers boxing for the Ventura County (CA) Star newspaper. He could be reached by email at santio89@yahoo.com or on twitter at FSalazarBoxing