What’s Next for Former IBF Champion, Ishe Smith?

What’s Next for Former IBF Champion, Ishe Smith?

Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith made history in February this year by becoming the first Las Vegas native to claim the title of IBF Junior Middleweight. Smith carried confidence and momentum going through 2013 and at 35 years of age through personal and professional adversity, claimed his redemption and the title of first World Champion on the Mayweather Promotions roster.

But proving that it’s harder retaining a title, Smith suffered a set back for his first title defense in July due to any eye injury caused during a sparring session and was forced to postpone the bout he had scheduled against Carlos Amado Molina.

Eventually the bout was rescheduled on the record breaking Mayweather vs. Alvarez “THE ONE” undercard on September 14th and true to form Smith retaining his title proved much harder, losing on a split decision to the more aggressive Molina in what fans labeled a “boring.”

So what now?

He now finds himself watching Molina secure Champion status with the IBF title but fortunately for him still in the 7th position ranking.

Smith will now need to asses if he still has the desire to continue, as it appeared to be lacking in his title defense. The Junior Middleweight division has limited options for Smith at the moment with most of the fighters tied up in schedules/T V contracts; Erislandy Lara fighting Austin Trout on December 7th for the WBA regular title, Demetrius Andrade vs. Vanes Martirosyan also fighting for the WBO Title November 9th with the winner of that fight fighting the mandatory winner of Javier Maciel vs. Brian Rose who fight Saturday, October 26th.

Showdowns with Carson Jones or Shane Mosley may not be out the question and would be good profile fights, however, I’m sure Smith and Mayweather Promotions will look at the belt rankings; win or bust, will soon let us all know the next move.

Allan McGoldrick/ @shottsabc

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