IBF calls for purse-bid for 140 pound eliminator

By Scott Shaffer

27/09/2006

IBF calls for purse-bid for 140 pound eliminator

While IBF junior welterweight titlist Juan Urango prepares to face generally recognized world champion Ricky Hatton, the IBF has called for an elimination bout involving the man Urango narrowly beat for the title after Hatton vacated it.  Unless an agreement can be reached prior to Ocotber 2, 2006, the IBF will hold a purse bid for a bout between Naoufel Ben Rabah, who barely lost to Urango and Lovemore Ndou. The winner is guaranteed a shot at the IBF title, although Hatton has vacated the last three titles he has won. Ben Rabah, 24-2, has not fought since losing to Urango at the end of June.  Ndou, 44-8-1, has won five straight against mediocre opposition since losing a WBC eliminator against Junior Witter. Both Ben Rabah and Ndou are based in Australia.