Rozicki (21-1-1, 20 KOs) ended a 15-month layoff as expected with a stoppage win over Chile's 16-fight pro Gerardo Mellado (12-5, 7 KOs) atop a local show in Sydney, Nova Scotia on Saturday night.

During fight week, he told The Ring's Anson Wainwright of an eagerness to take Mellado out quickly and stay active after a disruptive spell recovering from a torn biceps injury - one aggravated by sparring too quickly.

The WBC's No. 1-rated cruiserweight contender, Rozicki unloaded with heavy-handed combinations flooring the 33-year-old before a body attack saw the South American visitor crumble to the canvas once more in round two.

Post-fight, The Ring's No. 5-rated player at 200 pounds doubled down on what he wants next in a division changing all the time.

"I want to get right back in the ring. My target right now, is Noel Mikaelian for the WBC world title. He dodged fighting me five times, I've earned that shot and would like to make it as soon as possible."

Rozicki was slated to box Mikaelian in June 2024, though the Armenian withdrew after suffering a cut while training. Several dates came and went without success - totalling five postponements - then the sanctioning body elevated Jack from 'champion in recess' to full titleholder.

The Canadian's injury issues saw him miss out on a career-high purse and opportunity in the Saudi capital, one Mikaelian has since benefited from and wants unification matchups, rather than mandatories.

Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KOs) regained the WBC strap in his Badou Jack rematch on December 13, having suffered a disputed majority decision defeat by the three-weight world champion in Saudi Arabia seven months prior.

His promoter, Three Lions Promotions chief Daniel Otter, was in agreement.

"Ryan reminded the world exactly who he is. After everything he's been through with injuries and setbacks, he came back and did what real punchers do; ended the fight in two rounds.

"If Mikaelian isn't available, we want the biggest fights in the cruiserweight division, whether that's Jai Opetaia, Gilberto Ramirez or anyone else holding a world title. Ryan Rozicki is one of boxing's most dangerous fighters right now and the cruiserweight division is officially on notice."