What Is Next for Jared Anderson?

When the final bell rang at the American Bank Center, many were wishing they had seen Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) fight anyone but Ryad Merhy (32-3, 26 KOs).

The two fought in the main event of a Top Rank card in Corpus Christi, TX. Anderson won via unanimous decision with scores of 100-90 (x2) and 99-91, mostly because his opponent barely threw a punch. “The Real Big Baby” was always the one coming forward, but he never got inside and nothing he landed ever troubled Merhy, resulting in a lacklustre fight.

In the post-fight interview, Anderson claimed he was willing to take on anyone and that if he is “ranked with you and your name is near mine, then we can get it crackin’.” As is customary following an event, attention turns towards possible future opponents. Big Fight Weekend looks at three possible opponents for Anderson’s next clash.

Three Possible Next Opponents for Jared Anderson

Loser of Frank Sánchez vs. Agit Kabayel

Anderson has spoken about interest in getting him to fight in Saudi Arabia. Should he be looking to fight a fellow ranked fighter next, whoever loses in the bout between Frank Sánchez (24-0, 17 KOs, 1 NC) and Agit Kabayel (24-0, 16 KOs) may be worth looking into. Both men have had fights in the kingdom, so making a fight should not prove to be challenging if Anderson makes the trip to Saudi Arabia.

Since the fight is a WBC eliminator, the winner becomes next in line to challenge for the heavyweight title and may not have much interest in facing Anderson. For the loser, however, taking on highly ranked Anderson would be a way to remain in the top five. This would also provide the American with an opponent who should challenge him.

Otto Wallin

Otto Wallin (26-2, 14 KOs, 1 NC) has only lost to the best in the division and will represent a step up in class. A win over the Swede would further establish Anderson at heavyweight while also helping him develop. Top Rank have also worked with Wallin in the past. Such a bout would also give fight fans a better idea of Anderson’s ceiling.

Jermaine Franklin Jr.

In a fight that would pit Michigan against Ohio, Jermaine Franklin Jr. (22-2, 14 KOs) may also be worth considering. Following back-to-back losses to Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte, Franklin returned to the win column in July last year. Though he has been out of the ring since then, he is still ranked with the IBF and WBO. Though this may not be the kind of fight that takes place in Saudi Arabia, it could headline another Top Rank on ESPN card.