Commey to fight Garcia in January

The much-anticipated world title fight between Ghana's lightweight contender, Richard Commey and multiple titles holder, Mickey Garcia has been scheduled for next January in either Las Vegas or New York.

Commey (27-2, 24 KOs) will be challenging the undefeated Garcia (39-0, 30 KOs)  for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight belts.

After defeating American Alejandro Luna in an eliminator to the IBF title last March, Commey was expected to fight the then champion, Robert Easter Jr, but the American opted for a unification bout with Garcia which he lost by a unanimous decision.

The IBF, after the Garcia-Easter Jr fight, ordered the winner to start negotiations with Commey within 30 days, but after both camps failed to reach an agreement, a purse bid was called which resulted in the new date being agreed.

Confirming the fight to the Daily Graphic yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer of Streetwise Management, promoters of Commey, Michael Amoo-Bediako, revealed that an agreement had been reached.

"I can confirm to you that the Garcia-Commey fight has been billed for January next year with the venue to be in either Las Vegas or New York.

The IBF and WBC lightweight belts will be up for grabs for the winner of the fight," he said.