The WBA has ordered Anthony Crolla to defend his world title against Ismael Barroso by April 12.
In November, Crolla won the belt with a fifth-round stoppage of Darleys Perez, which Matchroom Sport promoter Eddie Hearn had hoped would set up a huge domestic showdown between the Mancunian and Kevin Mitchell.
However, Mitchell suffered defeat against the big-punching Venezuelan at London's O2 Arena in December, who became mandatory challenger for Crolla's world crown.
Unification clashes with either WBO champion Terry Flanagan or WBC title holder Jorge Linares had been suggested, but it appears that Crolla will fulfil his mandatory duties against Barroso in the spring.
If the two camps cannot agree a deal within 30 days, the fight will go to purse bids.
