WBN contacted the WBA as Chagaev has been out of action for six months and has been the subject of advances from number four contender Lucas Browne over the past few weeks. Australian Browne, who is undefeated in 22 bouts, believes that he should be next in line to be given a shot at Chagaev, although Mendoza says the fallout from the Uzbeki’s recent win over Fres Oquendo has to be sorted out first.
Oquendo is unhappy at the manner of his defeat to Chagaev last July and has filed a lawsuit claiming damages from the promoters of the Grozny contest over unpaid monies. The possibility of an immediate rematch between the two is also still a talking point with the WBA and needs to be cleared up prior to any other fighters being considered.
“Regarding Chagaev’s mandatory period, it’s most likely we will send out a press release next week, but the reason for the delay is in reference to Oquendo’s claims after the championship match,” Mendoza exclusively told World Boxing News.
“The WBA legal team and championship committee will allow Fres Oquendo and his team to explain their case and announce more on the subject soon.”
Former champion Alexander Povetkin will also have some say in the matter as he is currently ranked one place above Browne at number three with the WBA, but there will be no further movement until Chagaev and Oquendo sort out their disagreement.
