The World Boxing Association (WBA) has mandated a bantamweight title bout between current champion Seiya Tsutsumi and interim titleholder Antonio Vargas. This decision comes following the issuance of an official directive by the WBA Championship Committee, which stipulates that negotiations for this fight must commence within 30 days starting from March 25. According to championship regulations, Tsutsumi is required to defend his title against the designated mandatory challenger, Vargas, within 120 days of winning the belt. With Tsutsumi's victory occurring in October 2024, the deadline for this defense has already lapsed, making Vargas the next opponent. If no deal is struck within the allotted time, the bout may be decided through a purse bid.

In a move to ensure the continuation of competitive boxing matches at the highest level, the WBA has issued a formal notice requiring both camps to negotiate terms for what promises to be an eagerly anticipated clash. The reigning champion, Seiya Tsutsumi, who secured the WBA bantamweight crown last year, now faces the obligation to defend his title. Under the WBA’s rules, champions are bound to face mandatory challengers within a specified timeframe after securing their titles. In this case, Tsutsumi’s triumph in October placed him under the regulation to stage a defense by early January. Consequently, Antonio Vargas, recognized as the interim champion and official contender, steps into the spotlight as the rightful opponent.

Negotiations for this significant bout have been set to begin immediately, with a strict timeline established to encourage swift resolution. Both teams have until April 25 to reach an agreement on the details surrounding the match. Should these discussions fail to yield a satisfactory outcome, the WBA retains the authority to intervene and determine the financial aspects of the fight via a purse bid process. This procedural step ensures fairness while safeguarding the interests of all parties involved.

This upcoming confrontation not only highlights the rigorous standards upheld by the WBA but also underscores the importance of adhering to championship protocols. As anticipation builds among fans worldwide, the focus remains on the ability of both fighters to deliver a spectacle worthy of their respective standings in the sport. Whether through negotiation or purse bidding, the path forward will soon become clear, paving the way for what could be one of the most thrilling encounters in the bantamweight division.