The sense of urgency makes sense when you look around the division, with Kelly already winning earlier in the day and several other names already in the mix. Remaining silent can result in being ignored, especially when the sponsor is already weighing different options.

Zayas has seen how these situations usually play out. Unification discussions may sound urgent at first, but calm down once other fights start to look more manageable. By speaking up early, he ensures his name stays on the radar before attention shifts to other things.

This is not a division that naturally waits its turn for a fight. Jaron Ennis was promoted by the same company as Kelly, Matchroom, and the pair will stick around if both parties think it makes sense. Vergil Ortiz Jr. continues to be recognized by fans and broadcasters alike and has long been viewed as a major player. Sebastian Fundora is still a part of it because of his size, his recent title run, and the way he fights.

Tim Tszyu adds another option entirely. His fights put Australia’s pay-per-view money to work, opening up a market that wasn’t dependent on New York, Puerto Rico or the UK. Sponsors are well aware of this appeal and can quickly change plans once the numbers come into focus.

Zayas knows how quickly attention can shift. If he doesn’t speak sooner, others will often be seen first, and the conversation may change before he has a chance to take it back. This won’t permanently close the door, but it may delay it longer than expected.

Xander defeated Abass Baraou via split decision over 12 rounds. He holds two belts, but not the one that usually drives negotiations. Kelly’s side have already mentioned the idea of ​​staging a major stadium fight in the UK. None of this rules out Zayas, but it does highlight how open the situation remains.

Zayas immediately called Kelly to the front of the line. In this department, waiting rarely pays off.