The WBO has officially mandated that junior middleweight champion Sebastian Fundora defend his belt against Xander Zayas. The fighters now have 20 days to negotiate before a possible purse bid. Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, however, says Fundora’s priority is unifying at 154 pounds, potentially with IBF titleholder Bakhram Murtazaliev, and not a mandatory defense against 22-year-old Zayas.
Lewkowicz also hinted that Fundora’s camp isn’t worried about the young Puerto Rican, though some believe Zayas is too green for a clash with the 6’5½” champion. Critics in social media have labeled Zayas a carefully managed prospect whose opposition has yet to prove his readiness for top-tier contenders. Some speculate Top Rank hopes the WBO could strip Fundora so that Zayas could be elevated to champion without having to fight him directly.
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For Zayas, it’s a risky scenario. If he’s matched with Fundora, or equally dangerous contenders like Charles Conwell, he could face a reality check in what’s considered boxing’s deepest division. Yet should the WBO strip Fundora for pursuing unification instead of honoring his mandatory, Zayas could find himself holding the title - but might need to fend off more seasoned challengers soon after.
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