Bell reigns supreme in the cruiserweight division

Swansea's Maccarinelli targeted the Jamaican - acknowledged as number one at 200lbs - after his first title defence against Mark Hobson this month.

"I've emailed his people, I believe it could happen next year," said Bell.

"Enzo's a courageous man, no-one else in the division is willing to fight me. I respect a man who has just won his championship calling out the best."

Jamaican Bell, 31, has a record of 26-1-1 (24 KOs), his only loss coming in his second fight against Mohamed Benguesmia back in 1998.

I'd fight wherever there was the most money to be made, whether that was in the UK or the US O'Neil Bell

He drew against Ernest Mateen in 2002, but has a 100% record since, stopping Jean-Marc Mormeck in January this year to become the division's undisputed number one.

"I want to fight the best out there," Bell told BBC Radio Wales' The Back Page programme.

"Although I have the belts I've really got nothing to lose - I've got the world to gain as I'm still trying to make my impression on the wider boxing audience.

"Both Enzo and myself are in a win-win situation. I'd fight wherever there was the most money to be made, whether that was in the UK or the US."

Maccarinelli has a big-punching reputation

Big-punching Maccarinelli, 26, has a record that stands at 25-1 (19 KOs).

He is set to fight on an expected Joe Calzaghe undercard in Cardiff in February, and is also keen to fight in the States after a trip across the Atlantic last week.

"I've not seen Enzo fight, but friends have and I'm getting hold of tapes," said Bell.

"I'm a straightforward guy and I manage myself. A bout in February or March sounds fine to me."

Maccarinelli said: "I'm so confident I'd take on all-comers. I'm the world's number two cruiserweight and Bell is number one so he'd be ideal.

"Victory and unifying the division would be perfect and a great fight.

"He's lost once like me and is as hard as nails. Bell likes to fight, but he hasn't got my power."