Osleys Iglesias is willing to fight Christian Mbilli even if Marc Ramsey chooses the other corner, removing a potential obstacle to a super middleweight unification should both champions win their upcoming defenses.
The two fighters share Ramsey, but Iglesias will not allow that arrangement to prevent him from facing the WBC champion.
“Whoever’s in my corner is in my corner, but there are no excuses with me,” Iglesias told The Ring.
Iglesias defends his IBF title against Oliver Zaren this Thursday, October 8, in Quebec City on DAZN. Mbilli is scheduled to defend against Canelo Alvarez on October 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Iglesias views that fight as a 50-50 contest.
If both retain their titles, promoter Camille Estephan would have two champions at 168 pounds and an opportunity to arrange a unification. Iglesias has made clear that sharing a trainer would not be his reason for declining it.
The bigger obstacle could be business. If Mbilli beats Canelo, his next fight could attract considerably more attention. Matching him immediately against a dangerous puncher from the same stable would risk that opportunity.
Iglesias would have more to gain in recognition. Beating the man who had just defeated Canelo could transform his career, while Mbilli might have better-paying options. Having both champions under one promoter makes negotiations easier, but it does not guarantee Estephan wants the matchup.
Ramsey would also have a choice to make. If he stayed with Mbilli, his knowledge of Iglesias’s habits could help with preparation, although Iglesias only began working with him less than three months ago.
Inside the ring, Mbilli’s pressure could give Iglesias the exchanges he wants. Coming forward against a powerful southpaw creates opportunities for straight left hands and short counters.
That danger runs both ways. Iglesias would need to land enough to interrupt Mbilli’s attacks. If Mbilli takes his punches and keeps forcing exchanges, Iglesias would have to maintain his effectiveness through a demanding twelve rounds.
Iglesias must beat Zaren first. Beyond Thursday, his willingness puts the question to his promoter: would Eye of the Tiger match its champions if Mbilli returns from Riyadh with a victory over Canelo?