Sure, it was an easy win and scalp on his record against shopworn Jean Pascal (37-9-1, 21 KOs) but nonetheless, the Polish veteran hoped it would open doors to bigger and better opportunities.

Twice a world title challenger, he hoped winning the interim WBC cruiserweight strap would fast track him to face Noel Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KOs) for the full version. That hasn't been the case though, with the 37-year-old enduring a frustrating wait.

"Those who know me, know that the only thing I want is to fight," Cieslak (28-2, 22 KOs) told The Ring.

"I've never been afraid of anyone, and never hesitated to travel wherever the fight was, whether it was the Congo [to fight Ilunga Makabu] or London [Lawrence Okolie].

"Some things are simply out of my hands. My job is to box, so I'll keep waiting patiently for my opportunity."

Former European beltholder Cieslak, The Ring's No. 4 cruiserweight, sits one place above the man he is currently chasing.

Jacek Szelagowski, vice president of Knockout Promotions, is similarly disappointed that a title fight hasn't materialised for his charge.

"We were convinced that this year Michal would finally get his world title shot, but everything now points to Mikaelyan vs. [WBA/WBO champion David] Benavidez happening first," he said.

"With that in mind, we'll arrange a fight for Michal in Poland around the same time and continue waiting for the world title opportunity he has earned."