Boxing
Kelly mandatory wait goes on as Agyarko floated for voluntary defence
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Josh Kelly's hunt for a mandatory challenger goes on, as Caoimhin Agyarko swirls as a potential voluntary first defence pick.
'Pretty Boy' seized the IBF light-middleweight title against Bakhram Murtazaliev in Newcastle by majority decision in January.
Since then, the star has been seeking his next foe, with Agyarko previously due to face Brandon Adams in a final eliminator.
However, the latter's hotel room collapse shortly before their bout earlier this month drew a line through their own contest.
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Now, as reported by The Ring, Agyarko has reportedly passed on the IBF's order to face replacement Murtazaliev next up.
It adds fuel to suggestions that 'Black Thunder' could face Kelly in a voluntary defence, possibly in August or September.
Agyarko's decision however has offered Adams a road back into the mix, with the star now due to next face Murtazaliev.
The latter pair are anticipated to conduct formal discussions over a final eliminator clash, according to further reports too.
Must Kelly wait for homecoming dream?
DAZN News correspondent Andrew Steel
It has been a busy few months for Josh Kelly, or at least his team, as they seek to book his maiden IBF title defence.
Links to a super-bout with Jaron 'Boots' Ennis appear to have waned, as does the hope of a Sunderland homecoming.
Kelly has made no secret of his desire to headline at the Stadium of Light, but knows he would need the right partner.
Conor Benn, mooted multiple times as an option, appears to have other priorities with his Zuffa pursuits now renewed.
While Caoimhin Agyarko would make a fine opponent, Kelly may well be resigned to a wait for a major hometown date.
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