Atif Oberlton believes the light heavyweight division is there for the taking and says a world title opportunity may not be far away as he continues his rise through the rankings.
The unbeaten Philadelphia southpaw has built a 16-0 record with 14 knockouts and continues rising through the rankings at 175 pounds.
Despite the growing attention, Oberlton insists he is taking things one step at a time.
“I’m taking a one fight at a time. I trust my team and my promoters to lead me in the right direction,” Oberlton told World Boxing News.
“I’m ranked number five WBA, one in the USA and nine in the world on Boxrec in my division. The division is shallow, I see it as wide open and I see myself being a few fights away from a world title.”
‘Open season’
While Oberlton is not calling out specific names, he made it clear he sees opportunities throughout the division beyond the established champions.
“You got the top guys with the hardware, then it’s open season.
“I know I’m a top guy in the division and whoever else they think is a top guy, put him in front of me.
“I’m only focused on the guy in front of me because he’s in my way. If you’re not in my way, you’re not in the conversation.”
Oberlton has no doubts about where he belongs in the division and says he’s ready for whoever stands in front of him.
Staying active
One thing Oberlton does not want is inactivity.
The 27-year-old returned quickly after recent victories and says remaining busy is a major priority as he continues climbing the rankings.
“I just fought in February on the Claressa Shields card and I fought in May as the main event which is already a quick turnaround.
“My plan is to stay active and fight as much as I can so I can continue to climb the rankings.
“I do have an announcement coming up so stay tuned.”
Salita and Wynn impact
Oberlton also credited Salita Promotions and Wynn Records with helping him become more active, gain wider exposure, and secure bigger opportunities throughout his career.
“Since I’ve been with Salita Promotions, I’ve been more active. I’ve had bigger opportunities.
“I have a team that helps elevate me outside of the ring. All of these things were important to me coming into this situation. I appreciate the support from everyone.”
Oberlton added that much of his early career was spent building his reputation without the same level of exposure.
“I’ve been working in the shadows with my head down. I was doing the grunt work and making a name for myself.
“You could only do but so much without exposure. Salita and Wynn added that variable into the equation.
“I’ve been fighting on DAZN, I’ve been in the media more, and I’ve been given more opportunities to showcase not only my talent in the ring, but who ‘Lord Pretty Calvo’ is outside the ring.”
Bigger conversations
With his rankings rising and momentum building, Oberlton believes the next year could be the most important period of his career so far.
“In the next twelve months, you can see me making bigger fights, being part of bigger conversations and continuing to get the job done.
“I’m going to continue to do the work and show up and continue to climb the rankings.
“Who knows, I may get some candy soon.”
For now, Oberlton is focused on staying active and climbing the rankings.
If the division really is as open as he believes, the “candy” he referenced may arrive sooner rather than later.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
