Bentley On Adames Unification After Iglesias Talks Stall

WBO middleweight champion Denzel Bentley has signaled his readiness to unify titles with WBC titleholder Carlos Adames after plans for Adames to face IBF champion Osleys Iglesias stalled.

Adames was reportedly close to finalizing terms with Iglesias following his March 21 defense against Austin Williams, The Ring reported. Those discussions have since gone silent, with Iglesias said to be exploring alternative options. Bentley responded to a social media post from Adames indicating he would accept terms for a unification clash.

What Bentley's First Defense Could Look Like

Bentley earned his full championship status last month after Janibek Alimkhanuly notified the WBO of his intention to move up in weight. The Brit stopped Endry Saavedra in seven rounds on April 4 to claim the interim strap before his elevation. WBO president Gustavo Olivieri told The Ring it was "very likely" Bentley would receive approval for a voluntary first defense, with mandatory challenger Yoenli Hernandez positioned as the No. 1 contender.

Hernandez faces Francisco Veron on the August 22 Romero-Lopez undercard in what marks his toughest test to date. Bentley, who fights under the Queensberry promotional banner, is expected to defend before year's end. Top Rank-backed Jahi Tucker, Vito Mielnicki, and former junior middleweight champion Tim Tszyu have all expressed interest in facing the Wandsworth fighter.

Bentley carries a 22-3-1 record with 18 knockouts. Adames holds a 25-1-1 mark with 18 stoppages and remains the long-reigning WBC champion at 160 pounds.

Source: ringmagazine.com