Michael Amoo-Bediako (manager, left), Richard Commey, Carl Lokko (coach). Photo credit: Team Sauerland

Undefeated Ghanaian star Richard Commey (24-0, 22 knockouts) is set to face Robert Easter Jr. (17-0, 14 KOs) for the vacant IBF lightweight title.

Commey, who is rated No. 7 by THE RING at 135 pounds, was anticipating a showdown with titleholder Rances Barthelemy and was ringside to watch the Cuban successfully defend his title against Mickey Bey last Friday.

However, yesterday, the IBF announced that Barthelemy has opted to vacate the title rather than face Commey, and have now ordered the 29-year-old to meet Easter, the next highest-ranked contender, for the vacant belt.

Both parties have agreed to the fight in writing and have until July 6 to come to an agreement before the IBF calls for purse bids.

Speaking today at a press conference at the Kempiski Hotel in Accra, Ghana, Commey expressed his delight at landing his long-awaited title shot.

“I’m really excited to finally get my shot at the world title,” said Commey in a press release issued by Sauerland Promotions. “I have been waiting too long and too many fighters have avoided me but it seems like we are finally there. I would like to thank my promoter Team Sauerland for helping to get this opportunity, which I will take with both hands.”

Commey’s promoter Nisse Sauerland says he is confident the former Commonwealth champion can claim the title and has revealed his desire to stage the fight in Ghana.

“We’re delighted that Richard will finally get his chance to fight for the world title,” said Sauerland. ”This has been a long time coming, and Richard has been very patient, but now his time has come.

“He is, in my opinion, the best lightweight in the world and I have every confidence he will win the title and then go on to unify the division.

“We will try our best to bring this fight to Ghana. My father started his career promoting fights in Africa and we would love to bring big-time boxing back to Ghana. This country has a rich boxing history with many great world champions and Richard can take his place among these greats by winning the IBF title.”

“If the fight comes to Ghana, I will make the whole country proud,” added Commey. “It would be a dream come true to fight in our national stadium.”

Tom Gray is a member of the British Boxing Writers’ Association and has contributed to various publications. Follow him on Twitter @Tom_Gray_Boxing.

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