Both Gonzalez (34-0, 28KOs) and Ioka, 23, are former straweight champions who moved up in weight for bigger fights. The two boxers have to face each other, per the WBA, within 90 days of 12/31.

The HBO Boxing broadcast of Srisaket Sor Rungvisai vs. Roman "Chocolatito" Gonzalez took on September 9, 2017, at StubHub Center in Carson, California.

There could be an opponent switch for the defending WBA champion at 108-pounds, Roman "Chocolate" Gonzalez, who returns on Jul 9th in Mexico at a location to be determined.