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Home » Gennady Golovkin pushed for time in Cinco de Mayo bid

Gennady Golovkin pushed for time in Cinco de Mayo bid

Jaime Munguia, an undefeated youngster, was reportedly rejected by the Nevada State Athletic Commission as they approved Golovkin’s switch to the MGM Grand on Thursday.

In a nutshell, time is fast running out to seal a name fighter for the event. So what do you we know about who could replace Canelo Alvarez and challenge for Golovkin’s clutch of middleweight championship belts?

For one, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan remains hanging on a thread after agreeing terms last week. The Irishman informed WBN on Friday it was simply a waiting game after being contacted regarding the Munguia rumours.

All the big names are seemingly off the menu as Billy Joe Saunders, Jermall Charlo and Danny Jacobs all have prior engagements to fulfill.

Saunders defends his WBO belt against Martin Murray in June, Charlo is scheduled for a WBC eliminator with Huge Centeno imminently and Jacobs battles Maciej Sulecki for the WBA mandatory spot at the end of April.

Then you move down the list you see names like Demetrius Andrade, who was instantly drawn to being a substitute once Canelo had tested positive, whilst Ukrainian Sergey Derevyanchenko is the number one contender with the IBF and would mean ‘GGG’ could adhere to his obligation with the organization.

Outsiders would be Matt Korobov, Roberto Garcia and even Anthony Mundine – moves that will all depend on which route promoter Tom Loeffler wants to go down.

The Mexican element could play a big part in proceedings, but finding the right opponent at such short notice is where that situation may fall flat.

O’Sullivan remains the safe and solid bet, although keeping the Irish contingent in the dark and unable to make travel plans would hinder the amount of support heading to the Las Vegas strip.

Canelo’s fans will have pulled out and taken refunds in their droves, whilst many will be hanging on the official confirmation and whether a decent Mexican foe can be secured.

Phil Jay is Editor of World Boxing News. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay