The World Boxing Association (WBA) has officially ordered a mandatory title fight, setting the stage for a gripping junior bantamweight clash between reigning champion Kazuto Ioka and top contender John “Scrappy” Ramirez. The two camps have been given a 30-day deadline to negotiate terms for this much-awaited bout, aiming to avert a purse bid hearing.
In a decisive move, the WBA Championship Committee, led by chairman Carlos Chavez, has mandated this title defense. Kazuto Ioka, who claimed the title on June 24, 2023, is now overdue for a mandatory defense against Ramirez. The governing body has outlined that as per their regulations, Ioka is barred from facing any non-official challengers within sixty days post the mandatory defense period. The deadline for negotiations is set to close on February 12, 2024.
Kazuto Ioka (31-2-1, 16 KOs) is a distinguished four-division world champion from Japan. He showcased his prowess in his last bout, a commanding seventh-round knockout of Josber Perez on New Year’s Eve at Tokyo’s Ota-City General Gymnasium. Ioka’s journey in the 115-pound division has been remarkable, marked by eight consecutive title fights at this venue, including victories that earned him the WBO and WBA titles.
On the other side, Los Angeles-based John Ramirez (13-0, 9 KOs) earned his status as the mandatory challenger with a stunning fourth-round knockout victory over Ronal Batista in October. This victory in Inglewood, California, not only showcased Ramirez’s power but also marked his third win of the year, demonstrating his readiness for a title shot. At 26 years old, Ramirez is on the cusp of his first career title fight, bringing a blend of youthfulness and knockout power to the ring.
The upcoming clash between Ioka and Ramirez is not just a battle for the junior bantamweight title; it’s a collision of experience versus rising talent. Ioka, at 34, brings a wealth of experience and skill honed over a storied career. Meanwhile, Ramirez’s undefeated record and recent knockout spree signal the arrival of a formidable challenger. The bout also holds significant importance for Ioka, who risks being stripped of his title for the second time in this division if he fails to comply with the WBA’s orders.
Image Credit: Golden Boy Promotions