WBO Middleweight: Denzel Bentley vs Yoenli Hernandez Heads to Purse Bid

Purse bid ordered for WBO middleweight title

Following the breakdown of direct talks, the WBO middleweight world championship defense between titlist Denzel Bentley and mandatory challenger Yoenli Hernandez is heading to a purse bid. The sanctioning body has officially decreed that this mandatory obligation must take precedence without delay.

Denzel Bentley finds himself in this position after capturing an interim belt before being officially elevated to full world champion by the WBO. With that championship status comes the immediate administrative duty to face the division's designated challenger.

A showdown with the Cuban challenger

For his part, Cuban contender Yoenli Hernandez enters this mandatory assignment on the heels of a recent victory over Francisco Veron. That decisive win solidified his status at the top of the rankings and secured his opportunity to fight for the world crown.

The outcome of the purse bid will decide which promotional outfit stages the event, along with the official date and host venue. Whichever party submits the winning offer will secure promotional control over a pivotal bout for the middleweight division.