By Michele Emrick
Former IBF middleweight champ Lucian Bute (31-1, 24 KO’s) is leaning against pursuing a rematch with the current IBF title holder Carl Froch. Bute was demolished by Froch in just five rounds last May, but he held a rematch clause from that bout.
Both Lucian Bute and Carl Froch have since taken other bouts, and both are looking at additional fights in the interim. Bute was rumored to have something in the works with Kelly Pavlik, but that fight is no longer looking like it will come off. Carl Froch is likely headed to a showdown with WBA “regular” champion Mikkel Kessler, or possibly defending his own crown against Adonis Stevenson.
Over in the WBC, Andre Ward’s shoulder surgery is really shaking things up in the division. His vacating the title opens things up for others looking to capitalize on his misfortune. Ward will be declared “champion emeritus” until he can recover sufficiently to begin competing again. Meanwhile, Sakio Bika and Nikola Sjekloca will face of for the organization’s interim title next month.
As for Bute, Ward’s misfortune could potentially be his gain. Interbox, who is the promoter for Lucian Bute, spoke with the WBC, confirming that he is in line for a shot at the title following the clash between Bika and Sjekloca.
“This is what the WBC spoke to us about. This is definitely a good option and it interests us. Nothing has been finalized, but I spoke with Lucian and he agrees with this direction. This is the best option for us at this time. Winning the WBC belt will present us with beautiful options. There would be a fight against Andre Ward, or a unification bout against Carl Froch,” confirmed the president of InterBox, Jean Bédard in an interview with Gabriel Beland of La Presse.
