Carl Frampton unified the IBF and WBA super-bantamweight belts with a split decision win against Scott Quigg on Saturday night.
The Northern Irish fighter already held the IBF title going into the Quigg fight and relinquished the Bolton fighter of his WBA belt.
Post-fight, Frampton's manager Barry McGuigan was asked about what might be next for his fighter.
McGuigan mentioned some possible opponents, such as Leo Santa Cruz. When it came to the subject of Guillermo Rigondeaux, McGuigan was quick to dismiss the notion, citing the Cuban's 'negativity'.
He's amazing on the back foot but he's negative.
What do we gain by fighting him?
According to the Irish Daily Star, rather than fight Rigondeaux - who is the WBA's mandatory challenger for Frampton's newly-claimed belt - he will vacate the title.
The 35-year-old Rigondeaux is almost certainly the best fighter in the weight class and someone who would be an extremely tough opponent for Frampton.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo last week, Rigondeaux was already aware that a bout with either Frampton or Quigg would not be forthcoming.
They are both cowards for finding ways to avoid the best in their division.
I want to make a point that I’m here waiting for them; they know where to find me!
I am a warrior and will fight anywhere, even in my own backyard.
We wait in anticipation to see if the winner of a great fight between them will step up and get in the ring with me so the whole world can see who the best 122 pound fighter is. Fans should come to Liverpool to see what a true champion looks like.
Picture credit: Ramsey Cardy / SPORTSFILE
