IBF,WBC,WBA,WBO Top five MW Ryota Murata back on Innoue-Kono Dec 30

Ryota Murata to face (19-1-1) Bruno Sandoval. Murata, a Nara native, is currently ranked third by the WBO and IBF, and is sixth among WBC- and WBA-ranked middleweights. “I can’t say anything for sure because the ball (to host a world-title match) is not in our hands,” Hamada said. “But as far as we are concerned, we have been prepared to have a fight (for Murata) anytime. “There’s a possibility that (his title shot) happens.” As for Murata, he is trying not to dwell on it too much. Instead, he is focused on preparations for his final fight of the year. “I would like to do it if I’ll be given a chance,” said Murata. “But I’ll just focus on one fight at a time.” At the Ariake event, WBO super flyweight champion Naoya Inoue will face compatriot Kohei Kono, while IBF light flyweight title holder Akira Yaegashi will fight against Milan Melindo of the Philippines. London Games bronze medalist Satoshi Shimizu, a bantamweight, will face a TBA foe.Billy Joe's manager is currently entertaining a potential title defense with Team Murata ; winner of GGG-Jacobs might be seeing him down the road. Full article below. http://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2016/12/01/more-sports/boxing-2/murata-keeps-focus-upcoming-bout-aims-secure-title-shot/#.WEUBhE9LAhI