WBA Super featherweight champion Leo Santa Cruz and IBF super bantamweight champion Carl Frampton are in talks to meet in what would be a blockbuster scrap. However, if those negotiations fall through, Hugo “Cuatito” Ruiz is ready and willing to challenge Frampton. The situation is a bit complicated.

Frampton has been ordered by the IBF to face mandatory challenger Shingo Wake. If he doesn’t, he’ll be stripped of his title.

Obviously, a meeting with Wake won’t garner Frampton the same payday as a meeting with Santa Cruz. Frampton was already stripped of his WBA title for refusing to face Guillermo Rigondeaux.

“We obviously want the best, and Hugo is at a level where he can fight the best in the world. We will wait for something to be announced about Santa Cruz and Frampton, and if nothing is done, then we are happy to fight with Frampton in England,” said a spokesman for Ruiz to ESPN Deportes.

Ruiz (36-3, 32 KOs) is a veteran with proven KO power. Back in February, the former interim WBA World bantamweight champion stopped Julio Ceja to win the WBC title. After a championship-caliber performance, Ruiz feels he’s ready to challenge one of the best young fighters in the sport.

Despite his pursuit of Frampton, Ruiz also has some options. He could look to challenge WBO champion Nonito Donaire, but he’s set to defend his title against Zsolt Bedak on April 23 in the Philippines. Another option for Ruiz is former world champion Vic Darchinyan. That’s probably not a fight at the top of Ruiz’s list, but the two men could provide an all-action fight for fans. In any case, Ruiz is a fighter to keep on the radar moving forward.

KO fighters sell tickets and hungry ones garner large fan bases. Ruiz has both of those qualities covered.

This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.