Mitchell in frame for world title shot following Murray win

Kevin Mitchell’s reward for his magnificent victory over John Murray could be a world title crack against WBA lightweight champion Brandon Rios on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao’s rubbermatch against Juan Manual Marquez in Las Vegas on 12 November.

Respected Guardian and Observer journalist Kevin Mitchell (no relation) has tweeted that Rios’ manager, Cameron Dunkin, has confirmed to him that Mitchell is “being considered” as a potential challenger for Rios whilst Maxboxing scribe Steve Kim has also mooted that Mitchell-Rios “looks likely” for November.

Challenging for a world title would complete a remarkable career metamorphosis for Mitchell who spent 14 months out of the ring following his disappointing third round loss to Michael Katsidis. Written off by many who questioned his discipline and mental toughness both in and outside of the ropes, Mitchell rebounded with a superb eighth round stoppage to snap the 31-fight unbeaten record of John Murray a fortnight ago.

The 25-year-old Rios is also unbeaten in 29 fights (28 wins, one draw) and captured the WBA lightweight crown by stopping Miguel Acosta in the tenth round in February. The American made a successful first defence against Urbano Antillon when registering a third round knockout earlier this month. Rios’ sole career blemish saw him held to a ten-round majority draw against Manuel Perez in October 2008 which he later avenged with a seventh round TKO against Perez a year later.

Mitchell is currently ranked outside of the top 15 in the WBA’s latest lightweight ratings published on 12 July. However, the Dagenham fighter’s career best win over Murray (who also doesn’t figure in the organisation’s top 15) is likely to take care of this minor obstacle preventing him from securing a shot at Rios.