The promoter of Artur Beterbiev (9-0, 9KOs), has revealed that the International Boxing Federation has ordered his boxer to face living legend Bernard Hopkins (55-7-2, 32 KOs) in an IBF light heavyweight eliminator.

Hopkins is nearly 50 and essentially looking for one last big fight for a substantial pay, which Beterbiev might not be. The other thing is that Hopkins last bout a disturbing one-sided loss to Sergey Kovalev, almost makes me nervous since Beterbiev hits just as hard – something that could make for an ugly seen against Hopkins.

It was revealed that the two sides have until Thursday to accept the fight. If Hopkins  or Beterbiev  pass on the fight, then it would fall on relatively unkown Erik Skoglund, who is the next ranked foe.

Beterbiev has also been rumored for November bout with Sergey Kovalev, but many have doubted that bout would happen since Premier Boxing Champions and Main Events Promotions have had a rocky relationship.