The long-planned clash between Siya Kuse of South Africa and Joey Canoy of the Philippines will be a final WBC eliminator in the minimum weight division following the approval of WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán. Given the added significance of the fight, Kuse's promoter Rodney Berman (Golden Gloves) will now add the fight to his planned July 17th show at Emperors Palace. Berman, who began lobbying the WBC in early May, confirmed that plans are already underway – provided Kuse wins his already-planned fight at the end of the month. Kuse (8-2-1) has been on a tear, having recorded a thrilling win over previously unbeaten Beaven Sibanda five months ago. Canoy (24-5-2), meanwhile, has quietly built momentum, extending his unbeaten streak to eight with a recent knockout victory.

 

A win for either fighter would open the door to a title shot against WBC champion Melvin Jerusalem, a scenario that gains further intrigue considering Jerusalem is managed by Filipino boxing kingpin Jim Claude Manangquil, who also guides Canoy’s career.

 

First, however, Kuse must navigate a dangerous assignment against Samuel Salva on the May 31st show at Emperors Palace. Once seen as a routine outing, the fight now carries added weight with the WBC eliminator looming. A slip-up there would derail what has become a red-hot run – and delay the South African’s world title ambitions just as they’re beginning to crystallize.