Chris Colbert’s bright smile matched his effervescent personality. Although he was told at times to turn down his persona, Colbert believed that his bombastic disposition was etched into the very fabric of his identity.

Following his lopsided unanimous decision victory against Tugstsogt Nyambayar in 2021, Colbert (16-1, 6 KOs) solidified himself as the next fighter on the championship line. For his efforts, the loquacious and truculent upstart was scheduled to take on Roger Gutierrez for the WBA super featherweight crown.

Unfortunately for Colbert, his title dreams were dashed away as Gutierrez was forced to withdraw due to illness. In the interim, however, Hector Luis Garcia stepped in. Although he was given roughly two weeks to get himself into tip-top shape, the former Olympian would do just that as he cruised to the upset win.

Apoplectic over how things ultimately played out, Colbert audaciously began calling out Frank Martin. And while it appeared as though both men were on their way to sharing the ring against one another, the pair would go in opposite directions.

For Martin, he recently snagged the biggest win of his career, a one-sided drubbing against highly ranked prospect, Michel Rivera. Colbert, on the other hand, has remained mostly idle. But, he is slated to make his 135-pound debut when he returns to the ring on March 25th, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, against Jose Valenzuela.

Of course, the 26-year-old Colbert is well aware of the dangers that lie ahead. Nevertheless, if everything goes according to plan and Colbert takes care of business, he hopes that Martin (17-0, 12 KOs) will make his way back to the negotiating table.

“I still want that Frank Martin fight,” said Colbert to BoxingScene.com.

With his eyes firmly on the prize, Colbert has said time and time again that he would love nothing more than to avenge his loss to Garcia. Now, with the 31-year-old snagging the WBA super featherweight title, Colbert’s motivation remains at an all-time high.

Still, even with Colbert making his immediate desires well known, there’s a chance that his aspirations won’t be placated. Martin though, is an intriguing option. In an ideal world, Colbert, who’s spent the entirety of his career campaigning below 135 pounds, would benefit from having more than just a singular bout at his new weight.

In any event, if a Martin showdown can be consummated, not only would Colbert jump at the opportunity, he’d be willing to do so in a relatively short amount of time.

“Yea, if they willing to give it to me for sure. I’ll be ready in three months.”