Rances Barthelemy makes a return to 135 this weekend against Robert Easter Jr. for the vacant IBO and WBA titles.
After an unsuccessful attempt at a 140 title, Barthelemy expressed his delight in returning to lightweight.
He said in an exclusive interview with WBN: “I think all divisions are strong. They all have something to bring to the sport but amongst those is the 135lbs weight division which is a really strong division. I’m happy to be a part of it.”
With Robert Easter Jr. in front of him and the world titles on the line, Barthelemy can be expected if victorious to meet the other world champions at the weight.
“They’re excellent. There’s a really strong competition but I really have nothing to say but to give them their respect.”
Barthelemy has proven his interest in fighting at different weights, winning his first title at super featherweight he went on to win another IBF title at lightweight before meeting Kiryl Relikh in two fights at 140.
The Cuban wants to set records and write his name into history, being the first Cuban to win titles in three weight classes.
“That’s my goal. I’ve been saying the same message for some time now that my ultimate dream is to become a world champion at 140.”
THREE-WEIGHT
“To be the first Cuban to ever reach that height and become a multi three divisional weight champion. So that’s still in my back pocket. In the back of my head constantly.”
“That’s still in hindsight I’d still like to continue to try to reach that goal.”
If successful against Easter Jr. unifying titles and a challenge at becoming an undisputed champion could be tempting. When asked if becoming a three weight world champion is more important than being an undisputed champion, he concluded: “I think it’s more important to reach that three divisional world title goal.”
Chandler Waller is a staff writer for World Boxing News. Follow Chandler on Twitter @ChandlerWaller
