Artur Beterbiev is set on a fight with Dmitry Bivol after defeating Callum Smith.
The unified light heavyweight champion stopped Smith to make it 20 knockouts from his 20 professional fights, and at 38, time is likely running out for the fighter to become undisputed before he considers his future in the sport.
Bivol most recently fought in December when he defeated Lyndon Arthur at the Day of Reckoning in Saudi Arabia, and he appears no closer to a rematch with Canelo Alvarez.
First, Beterbiev’s promoter Bob Arum thinks any fight must take place three months after Ramadan, and then it would make sense for both fighters to finally settle undisputed status this year.
Beterbiev was clearly superior to his British challenger and becoming undisputed for either men would cement their legacy in the sport.
Speaking after the fight, he made it clear that he wanted the WBA belt next.
"Yes, of course," he said . "I need a fourth belt. It would mean a lot to me.
"It's the top," he continued. "It would mean in this category I have done work."
Beterbiev reflected on his victory, saying: "We had a couple strategies. We always have more than one.
"We need to be prepared for several strategies.
"He gave me a good fight. He stayed strong. He's good. Thanks to him. But today, luck is on my side."