However, he won't be fighting the No 1 South African contender Myekeni. Instead he will take on the tough Mexican Everardo Morales, who is ranked No 10.

After winning his 14th title defence, Pongsaklek needs only one more successful victory to qualify for the WBC Hall of Fame, and it's understood that WBC president Dr Jose Sulaiman will visit Bangkok if Pongsaklek beats Morales at the Central Ladprao arena.

The WBC ordered Pongsaklek to make a mandatory defence against Myekeni, but the South African said he was not ready to fight the Thai champion.

Pongsaklek, who has never fought outside Thailand, was offered a huge purse to fight in South Africa and - if he gets past Morales and into the Hall of Fame records - he will most likely defend his title for the 16th time away from home in South Africa.

Meanwhile, WBC vice-president Pol General Kovid Bhakdibhumi has lashed out at critics who claim Pongsaklek had "ducked" the main contenders.

"What should be remembered is that Pongsaklek wanted to fight Jorge Arce, but the Mexican champion went up a weight division after winning the interim world title," he said.

"People should know the real situation before casting their criticism. Some of the sporting press are now saying that Pongsaklek is ducking away from Myekeni. They should know that when Myekeni is ready and fully prepared he will get a shot at Pongsaklek's title."

Patrick Cusick

The Nation