Shannon Courtenay will defend her world WBA bantamweight title on July 31 at Matchroom’s Fight Camp event against a yet-to-be-named opponent.

The Watford boxer claimed the vacant title with a unanimous decision win over Ebanie Bridges back in April at the Copper Box.

A rematch against Rachel Ball is expected at some point in the future, but it appears next month will come too soon for that to happen.

To date, Ball is the only opponent to have got the better of Courtenay in her professional career, with a contentious points decision in August last year.

The two were due to go head-to-head for the WBA title but Ball had to withdraw after being heavily affected by Covid-19.

Ball is still struggling to return to full fitness as a result of the virus, but Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed they would be searching for a "big fight" for Courtenay's first defence.

Watford Observer:

After claiming her title, she told the Watford Observer that she had plans to unify the division in America, but said she would also be willing to fight Ball again.

"If I have to fight Rachel again so be it, if not we're looking to unify," she said.

"We're very excited about unifying the division and I'm excited about taking over the States. I want to go to America so I think that's something that's going to be in the pipeline for me next."

While an opponent is yet to be named, the fight presents a chance for Courtenay to add to her growing reputation.

The fight will take place on the undercard of Adrian Granados vs Conor Benn, with fights being held at Matchroom's HQ in Essex.

They will be broadcast on DAZN following the promotion company's change of broadcast partner.