The IBF is seeking a lightweight title eliminator between Albert Bell and Andy Cruz, with both boxers invited to enter negotiations. The 28-0 (9 KOs) Bell, from Toledo, Ohio, has already accepted the offer, while Cruz, 6-1 (3 KOs), has yet to respond. This comes after Canada's Lucas Bahdi, 20-0 (15 KOs), declined a similar offer to challenge for the WBA 135lbs title. Cruz's recent ratings update places him ahead of Alan Abel Chaves and Joe Cordina, but he fell short to current IBF 135lbs titlist Raymond Muratalla in their January 24 meeting. A win against Bell would put Cruz on track for a rematch with Muratalla, who is permitted a voluntary defense. Bell, 33, moved up to lightweight after failing to secure a title shot at 130lbs, and has since earned shutout victories over Josec Ruiz and Keith Hunter in his hometown of Toledo. The IBF's decision to organize this eliminator is a significant development in the lightweight division, with both boxers having until Thursday to respond.
