Anthony ‘Anto’ Cacace has finally decided to step down from the throne.

The red-hot Belfast southpaw confirmed that he has relinquished his IBF junior lightweight title. The decision came after a months-long waiting period for Mexico’s Eduardo Nuñez, Cacace’s mandatory challenger who will now get to compete for the vacant title.

“Today I have decided to vacate my IBF world title,” Cacace said on Friday via social media. “Becoming a world champion was an absolute dream and an incredibly proud moment for me.

“However , at this stage of my career, I only want the biggest fights possible, regardless of the belt on the line.”

The decision ended an eight-month reign which began with an upset eighth-round knockout of Wales’ Joe Cordina, who was 17-0 at the time of their May 18 title fight in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Cacace made just one title defense, a twelve-round, unanimous decision over former two-time IBF featherweight titlist Josh Warrington (31-4-1, 8 KOs) last Sept. 21 in London.

Cacace (23-1, 8 KOs), The Ring’s No. 3 junior lightweight, was due at the time to defend against Nuñez (27-1, 27 KOs), No. 7 at 130. However, the London show marked Riyadh Season’s first foray on British soil and the preference was for an all-UK lineup from top to bottom.

The promise was that Nuñez would get the winner.

The matter went back to a purse bid hearing when those terms weren’t satisfied. Queensberry Promotions and Matchroom Boxing, who respectively represent Cacace and Nuñez, were able to reach a deal presentable enough for the IBF to cancel the purse bid, of the belief that the fight would take place in the first quarter of 2025.

It turned to be little more than means for Cacace’s side to buy time and line up another opportunity.

“I’m a prize fighter,” explained Cacace. “[M]y aim now is to secure mine and family’s future and to create a legacy for myself in boxing by being involved in massive fights that fans will remember.

“Look forward to announcing my next fight very soon. Watch this space.”

It has been theorized that Cacace will next face former WBA featherweight titlist Leigh Wood. The pairing is little more than a rumor, however, as this goes to publication.

“The fans want the biggest and best fights, which is exactly what we’re going to deliver for Anto,” insisted Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren, head of Queensberry Promotions. “Fight news coming soon, you won’t be disappointed.”

The Ring has learned that Nuñez is expected to face Japan’s Masanori Rikiishi (16-1, 11 KOs) for the vacant title.

It will have to first go through the proper channels, beginning with the IBF confirming availability before ordering the fight. Once that step is taken, it is believed that the two will meet this spring in Japan.