WBC world cruiserweight champion Badou Jack needs a new opponent after Ryan Rozicki, his mandatory challenger, sustained an injury.
They were originally set to fight on May 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the undercard for Canelo Alvarez versus William Scull.
Now, Noel Mikaelian, the WBC `champion in recess`, is emerging as the most likely contender to face Jack on short notice.
Jack, a champion in three weight divisions, has been inactive for over two years since winning his WBC title.
Following Jack`s victory over Ilunga Makabu in 2023, Mikaelian also defeated Makabu to claim the full WBC cruiserweight title.
However, a contractual dispute with promoter Don King led to Mikaelian being designated `champion in recess,` paving the way for Jack to be reinstated as the full champion before the planned Rozicki fight.
Mikaelian is currently scheduled to fight Isaiah Thompson on May 17 in Miami, in an event promoted by Don King Productions.
However, it now appears Mikaelian is likely to replace Rozicki and challenge Jack for his WBC title.
With relations between Mikaelian and Don King reportedly improving, King is optimistic about reaching an agreement.
In a press release, King stated that Mikaelian is ready to fight Jack for the title and that negotiations are underway.
