By Rick Reeno
BoxingScene.com received confirmation from Kurt Emhoff, manager of Giovanni Lorenzo (29-2, 21KOs), that a deal has been reached to fight WBA middleweight champion Felix Sturm (33-2, 14KOs) on September 4 in Germany.
Just a few days ago, former champion Ricardo Mayorga told BoxingScene/Notifight.com that he met with promoter Don King over the weekend and signed a contract to face Sturm on the exact September date. A source close to Arena Box, who are promoting the September card, advised BoxingScene that Lorenzo will indeed be the opponent.
While the reason for Mayorga being bounced is unknown, there is heavy speculation that the WBA was not willing to sanction the fight because of Mayorga's inactivity. Mayorga has not fought since a 2008 knockout loss to Shane Mosley, and his last win came in 2007 against Fernando Vargas by decision. Mayorga is also not ranked in the WBA's middleweight ratings, which adds more weight to the WBA's decision. Lorenzo is expected to receive a top-fifteen position when the WBA releases their new rankings.
