Spence, coming off the back of his impressive victory over Chris Algieri on Saturday night, has the chance to secure a world title shot against Briton Kell Brook in early 2017, although must get past the dangerous youngster first.
The American himself holds a perfect 20-0 record, whilst the Russian, 23, has compiled a C.V of 30 wins and 13 stoppages since turning pro in 2010. Ponomarev moved to the USA in 2013 and has recently ended the unbeaten streaks of both Mikael Zewski and Brad Solomon.
“The IBF have ordered Errol Spence and Konstanin Ponomarev to fight in an eliminator for the number one position. Both boxers have agreed to this and will start the negotiation process,” Tucker exclusively told World Boxing News.
“After this fight, we will notify current champion Kell Brook on a date of October 26, 2016 that he must start negotiations with the mandatory challenger.”
Brook is on the lookout for a massive summer clash against a big name contender and was recently linked to facing Miguel Cotto until the Puerto Rican legend decided to delay his return.
A clash with Spence would be ideal for Brook and promoter Hearn to enhance the reputation of ‘The Special One’ but will have to be put on the backburner until the Ponomarev fight is concluded.
