The IBF has confirmed to WBN that light-welterweight champion Lamont Peterson has five days to agree to his mandatory defense.
Peterson is due to put his belt on the line against undefeated Dierry Jean. If not, the stipulated contest heads to purse bids.
“In September, the IBF ordered light-welterweight champion, Lamont Peterson, to start negotiations with mandatory challenger Dierry Jean.
“If they can’t reach an agreement by October 22, the IBF will call for a purse bid,” the IBF’s Lindsey Tucker told World Boxing News this week.
Peterson, 29, has been out of the ring since his crushing loss to Argentinian hardman Lucas Matthysse in May.
It meant he missed out on a high-profile appearance on the recent Floyd Mayweather undercard.
Peterson vs Jean
The bout with Matthysse, which was over in just three bruising rounds, was classed as a non-title fight for Peterson.
The American could be heading for a fight outside his home country if no agreement on Peterson vs Jean is reached before the deadline.
The last time Peterson fought overseas was a 2009 stoppage win over Willy Blain in Puerto Rico. However, the Washington-based title holder’s two defeats have come in the US since then.
Jean has racked up 25 straight wins since entering the pro ranks. Three of his 17 stoppage wins came in his last three fights.
He might be considered the favorite if the clash does head to Canada.
Follow WBN on Facebook @officialworldboxingnews, Instagram, and Twitter @worldboxingnews.
