Derby’s McKenzie made the announcement himself, which means that current interim champion Ramirez has been elevated to full title status at the expense of Yoan Pablo Hernandez.
The twelve round world championship bout will take place at the Villa La Ñata Sporting Club in Benavídez, Buenos Aires and see Ramirez make the first defence of his new belt after weeks of frustration.
Hernandez pulled out of facing Ramirez twice and the International Boxing Federation were forced to act and strip the Cuban of his red belt. That gave McKenzie just 11 days notice to step up and take the fight, which ‘The Upsetter’ duly did on the back of some recent good form.
The 35 year-old, who was born in Jamaica before moving to Britain, has twelve losses on his rollercoaster record, but has put together a run of four straight wins against decent opposition to earn his timely opportunity.
New champion Ramirez, 31, has himself been defeated on two occasions from 24 contests, although can boast 17 KO’s on his C.V which should make for an exciting encounter involving two big-punchers.
