The March 9 Showtime Boxing card suffered another hit with the sudden withdrawal of Anthony Yigit, but a former world title challenger has taken over his spot.
Petr Petrov is now confirmed to take over Yigit's position on the card after Yigit suffered an illness and will face Ivan Baranchyk in the co-main event of the card, which will take place in South Dakota. The winner of that fight will be placed as the No. 2 ranked junior welterweight in the IBF official rankings. In a press release sent to Fightful, Petrov said he is excited to take a fight that could lead to a potential world title fight.
"I am grateful for this opportunity to fight of the number-2 position in the IBF. A victory will open the doors for me to get another world title shot. Baranchyk is a tough fighter who is right in front of you. This will not be an easy fight, but I am a veteran who can adapt to any style," Petrov said.
Petrov has not fought since he challenged for the WBO lightweight title but lost to then-champion Terry Flanagan last April. Petrov's fight will be the co-main event to the Regis Prograis vs. Julius Indongo fight for the interim WBC junior welterweight championship. Baranchyk has won all six of his fights since 2016 and is undefeated as a pro boxer with a record of 17-0.
The current IBF junior welterweight champion is Sergey Lipinets and he is scheduled to defend his title against Mikey Garcia on Showtime on March 10. Fightful will have live coverage of the March 10 Showtime card.