The IBF have officially ordered unbeaten lightweights Albert Bell and Lucas Bahdi to square off in a final eliminator.

Although both sides have been given just under a week to decide whether they’ll accept, Bell wasted no time and has informed the IBF that he will participate. Bahdi (20-0, 15 KOs) hasn’t made his decision just yet.

Currently, Bell ranks No. 6 in the IBF, while Bahdi has the No. 5 position. The winner of their possible matchup will move to the front of the line and become the No. 1 contender and mandatory challenger for current champion, Raymond Muratalla.

For years, Bell (28-0, 9 KOs) has claimed to be one of boxing’s best-kept secrets. He hasn’t fought top-level opposition just yet, but he has remained active. The Ohioan took home decision wins over Keith Hunter and Josec Ruiz in 2025. As for Bahdi, he beat former world champion, Roger Gutierrez, in his last outing in August.

Muratalla (24-0, 17 KOs) started the year strong by defending his lightweight strap against former 2020 Olympic gold medalist, Andy Cruz, winning a majority decision.