Atif Oberlton believes the featherlight heavyweight division is within reach and says a world title shot may not be far away as he continues his climb up the rankings.

The undefeated southpaw from Philadelphia has posted a 16-0 record with 14 knockouts and continues to climb the rankings at 175 pounds.

Despite growing interest, Oberlton insists he’s taking things one step at a time.

“I fight one at a time. I trust my team and promoters to guide me in the right direction,” Oberlton told World Boxing News.

“In my division I am fifth in the WBA rankings, one in the US and ninth in the world on Boxrec. The division is shallow, I see it as wide open and I see that I am a few fights away from a world title.”

“Open Season”

While Oberlton doesn’t name specific names, he has made it clear he sees opportunities across the league beyond the established champions.

“You have the best guys with equipment and we are starting the open season.

“I know I’m the top guy in the division and whoever else they think is the top guy, put him in front of me.

“I only focus on the guy in front of me because he’s in my way. If you’re not in my way, you’re not in the conversation.”

Oberlton has no doubt where he belongs in the division and says he’s ready for whoever comes before him.

Stay energetic

The only thing Oberlton doesn’t want is inaction.

The 27-year-old has made a quick comeback after recent victories and says his main priority as he continues to climb the rankings is to stay busy.

“I just fought in February on the Claressa Shields card and fought in May in the main event, which is already a quick turnaround.

“My plan is to stay energetic and fight as much as I can to keep climbing the rankings.

“I have an announcement, so stay tuned.”

The influence of Salita and Wynn

Oberlton also credited Salita Promotions and Wynn Records with helping him become more energetic, gain wider exposure and gain more opportunities throughout his career.

“Since I’ve been with Salita Promotions, I’ve been more energetic and have more opportunities.

“I have a team that helps me take myself beyond the ring. All of these things were critical to me when I found myself in this situation. I appreciate everyone’s support.”

Oberlton added that much of his early career was spent building his reputation without the same level of exposure.

“I worked in the shadows with my head down. I did the difficult work and made a name for myself.

“You can only do so much without exposure. Salita and Wynn added this variable to the equation.

“I wrestled on DAZN, got more media exposure and was given more opportunities to showcase not only my talents in the ring, but who ‘Lord Pretty Calvo’ is outside of the ring.”

Bigger conversations

Oberlton believes that as his rankings rise and momentum gains, the coming year could be the most critical period of his career to date.

“Over the next twelve months you will see me fighting bigger fights, participating in bigger conversations and continuing to do my job.

“I’m going to continue to do my job, show up and climb the rankings.

“Who knows, maybe I’ll get some candy soon.”

For now, Oberlton is focused on staying energetic and climbing the rankings.

If the department is indeed as open as it thinks it is, the “candy” he mentioned may come sooner rather than later.

About the author

Phil Jay is the editor-in-chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a boxing veteran with over 15 years of experience. Read the full biography.

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Last updated: 22/06/2026 at 3:01