Belfast's Caoimhin Agyarko earned his shot at Josh Kelly and the IBF light-middleweight title after original opponent Brandon Adams collapsed before their April weigh-in. The undefeated 29-year-old improved to 18-0 with a September win over Ishmael Davis, positioning him for this championship opportunity.

When Adams couldn't compete, the IBF ordered Agyarko to face former champion Bakhram Murtazaliev for the mandatory challenger spot. However, Agyarko's team declined that scenario, allowing Adams to step in against Murtazaliev instead. This opened the door for Kelly to select Agyarko as a voluntary defense.

The fight represents a significant step up for Agyarko, who has steadily climbed the rankings with his perfect record. Kelly, now 18-1-1 after defeating Murtazaliev in January, seeks to establish himself as a dominant champion in the division.

The bout could land on the Anthony Joshua-Kristian Prenga undercard in Riyadh on July 25, or potentially at Newcastle's Utility Arena in August. An official announcement arrives next week, giving both fighters time to prepare for what could be the defining moment of Agyarko's career.