By Eric Thomas: WBA World welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi (31-4, 7 KO’s) may opt to go soft for his first title defense by taking on former light welterweight title challenger Dmitry Salita (33-1-1, 17 KO’s) next rather than taking on a top 15 contender, according to ESPN.

Malignaggi told ESPN writer Michael Woods “It’s being discussed seriously.”

I’m just wondering how the World Boxing Association can let the fight take place, because the 30-year-old Salita isn’t ranked in the top 15 in the welterweight division. Of course this would be an optional defense for Malignaggi, but you’d like to see a champion at least take on a bottom 15 guy if he’s going to go soft. Taking on a 2nd tier fighter seems a little off putting and not good for boxing.

Salita was ranked #1 2009 when he was blown out in the 1st round by then WBA World light welterweight champion Amir Khan in December of that year. Salita hadn’t really beaten any of note before that fight, and you have to question why the WBA had him ranked so high. As it turns out, the fight was a horrible mismatch with Salita getting knocked down three times in losing by a 1st round knockout.

Since the loss to Khan, Salita has won three consecutive fights, albeit against less than dangerous opposition. You’d like to see a fighter like Salita at least beat one top 15 contender before getting another title shot.

Malignaggi’s chances of holding onto his WBA title for any length of time are slim and none. Unbeaten fighters Kell Brook and Thomas Dulorme are ranked #2 and #3 respectively by the WBA, and both would likely batter Malignaggi senseless if and when they’re given a chance. #7 WBA Devon Alexander is also a fighter that would likely make easy work of Malignaggi. As you can see, the top 15 is loaded with landmines for the light hitting Malignaggi. He’ll last as a champion as long as he avoids those fighters.