By Rick Reeno

BoxingScene.com had been advised that the WBO ordered their lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez to defend his title against the interim-champion/mandatory challenger Michael Katsidis. The WBO has given both sides 30-days to reach an agreement before a purse bid is ordered. Both fighters are promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

Marquez will have to make a decision very soon. The Mexican champion is the frontrunner to face WBA 140-pound king Amir Khan on December 11. If Marquez decides to move up in weight to fight Khan, the WBO will strip him of their title and make Katsidis the full champion.