Tyson Fury vacated the strap, along with the WBA and IBO versions, leading to number one Parker and third placed Ruiz opening talks for what they immediately thought would a sanctioned clash.
WBO President Paco Valcarcel recently threw a spanner in the works by stating a four-man tournament, including Parker, Ruiz and two other fighters, could be arranged instead to settle a new champion.
Despite this, Sanchez remains hopeful negotiations for the Parker v Ruiz fight will be completed soon.
“Top Rank are trying to finalize fight but I don’t know yet what month it will take place,” Sanchez exclusively told World Boxing News.
“As far as I know, It’s definitely for the vacated WBO title,” he added.
Asked his thoughts on the Anthony Joshua v Wladimir Klitschko clash, which promoter Eddie Hearn is attempting to finalize for December 10 – possibly with the WBA and IBO belts added to the IBF strap – Sanchez gave what some may see a surprising prediction.
“I think Anthony Joshua v Wladimir Klitschko is a very good scrap,” he said. “I think we see a much more animated and aggressive Klitschko, he has to be as he is the challenger.
“If you ask me for a result I’d go for Klitschko by close decision,” added Sanchez.
