Barboza vs Catterall eliminator planned for Feb. 15

Arnold Barboza Jr and Jack Catterall have reportedly agreed to fight for a shot at Teofimo Lopez

The historically reliable Keith Idec brings word that super lightweight contenders Arnold Barboza Jr and Jack Catterall “have agreed to square off” atop a February 15th DAZN show in Manchester.

Eddie Hearn confirmed the negotiations to Salvador Rodriguez.

The WBO first ordered this final eliminator late last month, during which time they’ve declined to get back to me on why Barboza (31-0, 11 KO), who’s sat atop the rankings for over 12 months, has to fight yet another contender while Lopez enters his 18th month without a mandatory defense. Yes, Barboza deserved the loss against Sean McComb earlier this year, but it went down in his record as a win and Lopez is out here whining about his inability to land fights.

In any case, it’s a well-matched fight between skilled boxers, though one that’s likely to be far more intriguing on paper than in action. Both are coming off of strong performances over heavy hitters, with Barboza cruising past Jose Ramirez and Catterall (30-1, 13 KO) putting Regis Prograis on the canvas twice.