The fight will be Baraou’s first since losing a close split decision to Xander Zayas in their title unification bout in January. Top Rank President Todd duBoef believes the 31-year-old German has already shown that he belongs near the top of the division. Top Rank also promotes Zayas, giving the company control of both sides if a rematch eventually makes sense. Baraou (17-2, 9 KOs) captured the WBA interim belt last August with a unanimous decision over Yoenis Tellez, dropping him in the closing seconds. If he handles Santillan and continues winning, Top Rank already has one particularly interesting destination available: another fight with Zayas.