THE International Boxing Federation (IBF) has ordered Sanman Boxing Gym’s Randy Petalcorin and Nicaragua’s Felix Alvarado to fight for the vacant IBF world light flyweight belt.

The order came after South African boxer Hekkie Budler decided to give up his IBF lightweight title. Budler had won the title via a unanimous win over Japan’s Ryoichi Taguchi on May 20 in Ota-City Gymnasium in Japan.

With Budler’s decision and if negotiations pull through, Petalcorin and Alvarado will contend for the title being the two highest-ranked fighters in the division.

The 29-year-old Alvarado (33W-2L, 29KOs) is rated no. 1 in the division, while the 26-year-old Petalcorin (29W-2L-1D, 22KOs) is ranked third. The number two spot in the division is vacant.  

Petalcorin was excited upon learning about the IBF order.

“I will be ready for this fight. I know Alvarado is a big puncher but I am ready for any challenge in my bid to become a world champion again,” said Petalcorin, a former interim world champion in the said division.

Sanman Promotions CEO Jim Claude Manangquil said he will be working with Petalcorin’s co-manager Peter Maniatis in the negotiations to realize the what could be a gigantic showdown.

 “This is the opportunity that Randy Petalcorin has been waiting for a long time. We will do our best to give the Philippines another world title," said Manangquil.

IN OTHER NEWS: JOE DEGUARDIA'S STAR BOXING is pleased to announce the signing of undefeated welterweight and Detroit native, RONNIE "TEFLON RON" AUSTION to a promotional agreement.  The 24 year-old Austion currently has an impressive record of 9-0 with six wins coming by way of knockout.

Austion had a terrific amateur career, with an impressive record of 95-20. Along with his record, Austion boasts the titles of Ringside champion, Junior Olympic champion and olympics qualifier.

Austion currently fights out of Las Vegas, Nevada, and under the Star Boxing banner, will look to continue to defend his undefeated record, while setting his sites on the ultimate goal of earning a world title. Austion fights out of the Mayweather Gym in Vegas but began his tutelage at the world famous Kronx Gym under the watchful eye of trainer Javan "Sugar" Hill and the legendary Emanuel Steward.