A domestic three way dance is in the works down under with an all-Australian grudge match between former world champion Billy Dib and Kye MacKenzie looming in March, with fighter Francis Chua looking to jump in the mix.
Dib vs. MacKenzie fight could feature on the undercard of Tim Tszyu’s bout against Dennis Hogan on March 31, and may even be for an interim-world title at lightweight.
Billy Dib (47-6), fresh off a TKO victory over Joey Baylon, has been called out by WBA Oceania lightweight champion Mackenzie 21-2.
"All respect to Billy Dib on the challenge! I’m the young warrior in this clash and I’m burning to take the crown and make a statement to the world," MacKenzie said.
Waiting in the wings is "The Removalist" Francis Chua (7-1-1), his lone loss being a decision to MacKenzie.
Chua had previously upset MacKenzie’s tilt at a world title shot against Vasyl Lomachenko when he beat the WBO #2 in front of a crowd of 40,000 as part of an undercard to a Jeff Horn bout in Brisbane. It was viewed as Australia's “Upset of the Year”
Chua will first have to contend with undefeated prospect Kazeem Soyoye on February 26 at the Thunderdome event at Metro City in Perth. It will be the main event for the WBA's Oceania super featherweight championship
Chua is Australia's boogeyman of the super featherweight and lightweight divisions, with the only man willing to face him is Kazeem "The African Dream"
Chua discussed his upcoming title clash and his future plans.
"I just feel so lucky that in this crazy time of COVID we are able to do these things. Western Australia is a truly blessed place. Nothing brings hope and community better than sport, we can fight and get through this. Don't give up," Chua said.
"I feel the fight is going to be action packed and will really test both of us. I'm so happy Tony was able to make it for a WBA Oceana interim-title - meaning we both deserve this shot. I'm expecting fireworks the whole fight. It's a huge opportunity for both of us.
"My priority is Kazeem, but I'm definitely keeping an eye on Mackenzie and Dib. I want the winner. I know in my heart and from all the fans I won both fights with Kye..... no one gave me a chance but my manager (Tony Tolj) and my trainer (Jay Gray). And whoever wins with Dib and Mackenzie, I want it to be known I'm ready for the winner. The Australian Boogeyman is coming to get you both."
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