(DEC 29) Two-division world
champion Lani Daniels has been forced to vacate one of her world
titles.
New Zealand Maori Lani Daniels has had a very successful 2023,
winning the IBF World Heavyweight and IBF World Light
Heavyweight titles. After Daniels won the title, his management
was made aware by IBF that Daniels could not hold a world title
in two weight divisions under IBF bylaws.
Some boxing-sanctioning bodies do allow boxers to hold titles in
multiple weight classes. An example is Floyd Mayweather, with
the WBC holding titles in the Welterweight and Super
welterweight divisions. Claressa Shields held world titles in
both the Middleweight and Super Welterweight divisions with the
IBF; however, she would also be forced to vacate her title,
ultimately choosing to keep the Middleweight title.
It is believed that Daniels will be choosing to keep the new
Light Heavyweight title as it continues her pathway to go down
to Super Middleweight eventually. Daniels' manager, John Conway,
had plans for Daniels to keep her Heavyweight title and defend
it in her next fight before going back to the Light Heavyweight
division in late 2024. Unfortunately, the next opponent that was
lined up declined the fight, causing plans to be changed.
We do know that a rematch between Daniels and Desley Robinson.
Apart from that, we are not sure who else would be next on
Daniels's radar. Russian Luiza Davidova is ranked 1st in the IBF
Light Heavyweight division; however, it is unlikely for this to
be Daniels's next opponent as New Zealand has sanctions against
Russia. Canadian Vanessa Lepage Joanisse is ranked 3rd, a more
likely opponent in the rankings.
The next opponent will likely be the Australian boxer, ranked
3rd in the WBC, Che Kenneally. Kenneally is closest to New
Zealand in the ways of contenders and the most cost-effective
for the promoter.
Lani Daniels, promoted by Dean Lonergan, will return in the ring
in April 2024, most likely in Hamilton, New Zealand. Of course,
Mea Motu will be the main event alongside Daniels as they defend
their respective titles.
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