The Cuban favourite, ranked number one in the division, has been ordered to face a top-ten opponent for the now-vacant major strap.

Terence Crawford's retirement, mere months after dethroning Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez as undisputed champion, has sparked a scramble.

Iglesias had been keen to secure a clash with Alvarez originally, but subsequently turned to ex-WBO super-middleweight champion Munguia. 

Now, however, the Mexican has also passed on the chance, citing other plans, and leaving the IBF to dig deeper down their list for options.

Callum Simpson's defeat to Troy Williamson in December effectively rules him out, while Hamzah Sheeraz is expected to chase other foes.

Diego Pacheco has likewise been ordered by the WBO to face the Briton, complicating any pursuit for Iglesias, and leaving limited options.

Pavel Silyagin, ex-title holder William Scull and the dangerous Bruno Surace sit among the other contenders who could yet be called upon.

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January starts with a heavyweight bang as Agit Kabayel takes the next steps towards a world title shot as he face Damian Knyba on Saturday, January 10, exclusively on DAZN  Watch with a subscription, monthly and annual options available.

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