By Yuri Tarantin
Russian's Denis Shafikov (36-1-1, 13KOs) has a set date for his bout against Rances Barthelemy (23-0, 13KOs) of Cuba.
According to Ural Boxing Promotions, who co-promote Shafikov with Top Rank, they were advised that a date of November 14th was being finalized at a venue in Las Vegas.
Shafikov and Barthelemy will battle for the vacant IBF lightweight championship. The belt was vacated by Mickey Bey who refused to go forward with a bout against Shafikov.
Premier Boxing Champions is being discussed as the television platform for this match. The exact network has yet to be determined.
This will be Shafikov's second shot at a world title He previously challenged former champion Miguel Vasquez and lost a twelve round decision.
Barthelemy was competing in his last fight as a junior welterweight, where he dominated former champion Antonio DeMarco. Upon receiving news of a title shot opportunity, he announced that he would move down in weight to accept the fight.
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