Julian Williams will fight in IBF eliminator Jan. 16 in Showtime co-feature

One of the best young fighters in boxing is one step closer to his first world title shot.

Julian Williams will fight in an IBF junior middleweight eliminator on Jan. 16 in the Showtime co-feature to Deontay Wilder's next title defense, a person with knowledge of the plan told Paste BN Sports. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the fight hasn't yet been made official. Williams is likely to face either Michel Soro or Martirosyan. Soro is the organization's top-ranked contender, though, so as long as he accepts the fight it's his.

The winner will be the mandatory challenger for the IBF title held by Jermall Charlo. Charlo makes the first defense of his title Nov. 28 against Wilky Campfort.

Williams (21-0-1, 13 KOs) is one of the fastest-rising stars in the sport. The Philadelphian is a big puncher, and showcased his power with a KO 1 of Luciano Cuello in September. The 25-year-old is rated No. 7 by Boxing Junkie, but his upside is tremendous. He's called out the best but hasn't yet secured a big-name opponent.

Soro (27-1-1, 17 KOs) impressed with a four-round destruction of Glen Tapia in May, then won the EBU middleweight title with an eighth-round KO of Emanuele Blandamura. The Frenchman is fast, has good movement and packs a big punch.

Martirosyan (36-2-1, 21 KOs) has fought twice this year, a majority decision victory over Ishe Smith and a defeat to Jermell Charlo (Jermall's twin brother).