The likable Australian, 35, has contended at junior bantamweight for a decade. He's come up short in a three-fight series against Joshua Franco (UD 12/ ND 2/ UD 12) for the WBA bauble before Junto Nakatani's final round knockout for the WBO title in May 2023.

Moloney, The Ring's No. 5-rated player at 115 pounds, is hoping it's fifth time lucky when he faces Willibaldo Garcia for the IBF title in neutral territory on Saturday at Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname, Japan.

"I couldn't be more excited," Moloney told The Ring.

"It's been a long, hard road to get back to this position to again fight for a world title. It took a long time to get this fight organized, feels great to finally have a date and location locked in.

"I have wanted to fight in Japan for many years now and really happy that I have the opportunity to become world champion there.

"He is a world champion, so no doubt a good fighter, but I believe I am better than him in every department. He puts a lot of pressure on his opponents and throws punches from all angles. His focus is almost only on offense, and he leaves a lot of holes defensively that I can capitalize on."

Moloney (28-4, 18 KOs) was offered step-aside money which would have allowed Ring and unified titleholder Jesse Rodriguez to face Garcia for the undisputed championship.

"This world title means absolutely everything to me," Moloney said. "I was not willing to sell my dream. I have dedicated my whole life to being a world champion, made so many sacrifices and put so much blood, sweat and tears into this. I will not be denied on June 6, that IBF world title is coming home with me."

Moloney's longtime manager, Tony Tolj, has helped procure title shots previously but remains resolute that his fighter can finally get over the hump abroad.

"Andrew is basically family, and for him to win the world title would have that extra feel good story," said Tolj. "We have been on a rollercoaster and things are looking up ... but to be the man, you got to beat the man and Garcia is in our way."

Garcia (23-6-2, 13 KOs), The Ring's No. 7-rated junior bantamweight contender, won 10 consecutive bouts to earn a fight for the vacant IBF crown before a 12-round split draw against Rene Calixto in December 2024. He pipped him to a split decision nod five months later and they share a card this weekend in separate championship contests.