By Steve Kim

Tim Van Newhouse, who manages bantamweight Antonio Nieves, says that his man should be the one who faces WBA bantamweight belt-holder, Rau'Shee Warren (14-1, 4KOs) in his first title defense.

Van Newhouse told BoxingScene.com - "I’m friendly with Warren’s team, as we all grew up in the amateur system together. I heard from a close member of the camp that Rau'Shee is going to have a voluntary defense of his WBA title on the undercard of [IBF lightweight champion] Robert Easter Jr. in Toledo Ohio in January."

Nieves, who has a record of 17-0-2 (9KO's), is promoted by Dmitry Salita.

"Collectively, Dmitry and I have made several calls to Warren’s team in the past couple of days to propose Antonio Nieves as the opponent for January. He’s number 5 in the WBO and will have a top 15 ranking in the WBA come December," said Newhouse, who points out that they have crossed paths before.

"Warren beat Antonio in the amateurs several years ago, however he’s progressed significantly as a pro and is one of top undefeated bantamweights in the World. Toledo, Ohio would be a great central location for an amazing Ohio bout. "

Warren, who represented the United States in the Olympics three times, won this title back on June 18th when he out-pointed Juan Carlos Payano in their rematch in Chicago.

Steve Kim is the news editor for BoxingScene.com.