Round 12: Oleksandr Usyk,
The King Of The Nile!
By Mauricio Sulaimán / WBC President / Son of José Sulaimán
(May 29th) As happens every week, boxing provided us with thrills, stories, and examples of greatness both inside and outside the ring. Last Saturday, we experienced a truly special night in Egypt—a historic event that confirmed our sport knows no borders and continues to grow in every corner of the globe.
Set against an unbeatable and unforgettable backdrop, the Pyramids of Giza, our champion Oleksandr Usyk made it clear that he is among the best in the world. He faced a rival who proved he was no amateur; he fought the Ukrainian toe-to-toe and silenced many critics who had insisted he would be easily knocked out and defeated.
Oleksandr Usyk retained his WBC heavyweight world championship by stopping Rico Verhoeven in the 11th round, right as the final bell was sounding. Rico showed tremendous heart and admirable courage in only his second professional boxing match.
Many fans debated the referee’s intervention, as there was only one second left in the round. That is boxing: a sport of intense emotions where every decision sparks debate. The most important thing is that both warriors gave their all, walked out of the ring safely, and left a memorable image in a spectacular venue.
Egypt welcomed world boxing with extraordinary hospitality. Seeing a packed arena built exclusively for this event, passionate fans, and a top-tier production demonstrates that our sport is experiencing a very significant global moment. Boxing unites cultures, languages, and continents like few other sports can.
I also want to recognize the discipline and preparation of Usyk, who once again demonstrated his winning mentality and that he is a fighter up to any challenge. Every time he steps into the ring, he shows why he occupies a place among the world’s best pound-for-pound fighters. Our love and respect go out to Usyk.
In addition to defending his WBC title, he earned the “King of the Nile” commemorative belt—a precious jewel that we presented at the end of the fight, which we had the opportunity to carry to various locations during our tour of Africa. He also claimed another beautiful prize: the “Main Event” necklace, the third of its kind we have awarded, joining the collections of Ryan Garcia and Sebastian Fundora.
Egypt was filled with great stars of the sport, one of them being the current face of boxing, Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, who took the opportunity to officially present his upcoming bout against WBC super middleweight champion Christian Mbilli on September 12th.
I had the opportunity to greet them both and wish them the best of luck. They will now return to their camps to prepare for the big fight on the weekend of September 15th, which will take place in Saudi Arabia and will undoubtedly be a great battle.
Finally, after nearly two weeks away from home on a working tour that took me to wonderful places like Barcelona, Madrid, South Africa, and Egypt, it is time to head home. The activity continues with a spectacular event: the presentation of the “Tollan Tlatequi” belt to David Benavidez.
The commemorative belt for the May 5th weekend was to be awarded to the winner of the fight between David Benavidez and Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez; it was our proud super middleweight champion who won that bout, earning this recognition which will be presented at a spectacular event this week.
The Tollan Tlatequi belt, which pays homage to the state of Hidalgo, carries deep Mexican significance. It represents our roots, our culture, and the warrior spirit that characterizes Mexican fighters. Benavidez delivered a formidable performance and wrote another important page in his career by earning this special recognition.
David has always shown respect for Mexico and the history of national boxing. His visit will surely attract many fans and media outlets, as we are talking about one of the most explosive and popular fighters today.
And after the great event in Egypt, boxing does not stop. Next weekend, we will witness a fight that excites me greatly. Lourdes Juárez will defend her WBC world light flyweight championship against Yokasta Valle, who is moving up a weight division, in a bout that promises intensity from start to finish.
Lourdes is going through a great moment in her career. Her experience, mental strength, and great technique have solidified her as a worthy world champion. Furthermore, she proudly represents a historic family within Mexican boxing.
Across the ring will be Yokasta Valle, an internationally recognized champion and a fighter who always puts on a show. She possesses speed, intelligence, and enormous determination. When two champions of that level meet, the audience is always the winner.
Women’s boxing continues to grow impressively. Today, we see headline events, sold-out arenas, and fighters turned into global icons. The Saturday card will be a prime example, featured in an “MVP” lineup—the promotional company of Jake Paul, who is giving a great push to women’s boxing. This fills us with pride and motivates us to continue seeking opportunities for all athletes.
Another champion who will return to the ring very soon is O’Shaquie Foster, who will defend his WBC super featherweight world championship on May 30th against Raymond Ford. The champion has become one of the most solid and talented fighters of today.
His elegant style, his defense, and his tactical intelligence make him a very complicated fighter for anyone. Each defense represents a different challenge, and I am sure he will look to deliver another great performance to further cement his legacy.
In one of the categories with the highest international growth, Kevin Lerena will defend the WBC World Bridgerweight championship against Ryad Merhy in an awaited mandatory rematch. Lerena will look to ratify his absolute dominance in the division, while Merhy will try to settle scores on rival territory to crown himself with the emblematic green and gold belt.
Did you know?
The event last Saturday was historic, as it was the first to be held at the foot of the wonderful Pyramids of Giza. The production, the venue, the fights, and the knockouts all combined to make it an unforgettable night of boxing. Can you imagine an event at the foot of the pyramids of Teotihuacán? It’s okay to dream…
ANECDOTE OF THE DAY
The World Boxing Council was responsible for implementing the use of the “red card.” It is common for the referee and the ringside doctor not to speak the same language, or for the environment to be so noisy that communication between them becomes difficult.
Miguel Acuña, from Tamaulipas, had the idea of implementing a red card so the doctor could show it to the referee when they believe the fight should not continue, avoiding the need for verbal communication. It was at the annual convention in South Africa that the WBC voted in favor of implementing it.
The great referee Arthur Mercante took the microphone, indignant, and complained that this was an attack on the dignity of the referee and that it was unacceptable.
My father replied: “My dear Arthur, it was precisely your last fight that convinced us to vote in favor of this new dynamic. When Ricardo López was left severely cut by an accidental headbutt from Rosendo Álvarez, the doctor told you it was a dangerous cut and recommended stopping the fight, yet you let it continue.”
To which Arthur responded: “But José, I don’t speak Spanish and I didn’t understand what he said to me!”
My father burst out laughing and said: “Thank you, Arthur, your testimony has just ratified the decision made,” and he went to give his dear referee a hug.
WBC Confirms Brown vs. Rapp Winner
Must Defend Featherweight Title Against Ellie Scotney!
(May 19th) Undisputed super bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney has made the official decision to vacate her World Boxing Council World Championship in order to move up a weight class and pursue new challenges in her professional career.
Scotney confirmed herself as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world by unifying all the 122-pound titles, standing out for her flawless technique, discipline, and memorable performances inside the ring. Her reign as WBC champion was a fundamental piece of the historic journey that crowned her as the undisputed monarch of the division.
In her most recent bout, this past April 26 at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York, Scotney reaffirmed her absolute dominance at super bantamweight by defeating the courageous Mexican boxer Mayelli Flores via unanimous decision. Over ten intense rounds, she showcased her technical mastery and movement to counteract Flores’ aggressive pressure, convincing the judges, who turned in scorecards of 100-90, 97-93, and 98-92.
The World Boxing Council has confirmed that, following this strategic move, Scotney will be granted the immediate right to contest the WBC World Featherweight Championship in her new division.
Consequently, the winner of the upcoming bout between Tiara Brown and Hannah Rapp must defend the WBC crown by directly facing Ellie Scotney in her next commitment, with Scotney set to be ranked at the top of the WBC’s 122-pound lists for the month of June.
On May 14th, undisputed super bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney has vacated her WBC world title after deciding to move up in weight and pursue new challenges in her professional career.
Scotney established herself as one of the finest female fighters in the world, by unifying all the titles at 122 pounds, standing out for her technique, discipline, and outstanding performances inside the ring. Her reign as WBC champion was a fundamental part of the historic journey that led her to become the undisputed queen of the division.
In her most recent fight, held on April 26 at the iconic Madison Square Garden, Ellie Scotney reaffirmed her dominance at 122 pounds by defeating brave Mexican fighter Mayelli Flores via unanimous decision. Over ten intense rounds, Scotney showcased her technical mastery and movement to counter Flores’ aggressive pressure, convincing the judges with scores of 100-90, 97-93, and 98-92.
The WBC recognizes, appreciates and admires the professionalism, dedication, and competitive spirit Ellie displayed throughout her reign, wishing her the greatest success in this new chapter of her career in a higher weight division.
The organization, led by Mauricio Sulaimán, reiterated that the doors of the WBC will always remain open for Ellie. In the coming days, details regarding the process to crown the new champion at 122 pounds will be announced, as well as the specifics of Scotney’s debut in her new division, where she will look to continue writing her name into the history books of women’s boxing.
Francisco “Chihuas” Rodríguez and Angelino Córdova
Set For Flyweight Eliminator!
(May 12th) The WBC flyweight division has an important matchup on May 30 in San Diego, California, as Mexican fighter Francisco Rodríguez Jr. faces undefeated Venezuelan contender Angelino Córdova in a flyweight eliminator.
Rodríguez enters as one of the most experienced and offensive-minded fighters in the division, known for his aggressive pace, high punch output, and relentless pressure.
While Córdova will look to preserve his undefeated record and firmly establish himself as an elite contender at 112 pounds.
The Venezuelan has remained close to a world title opportunity in recent years, standing out for his technique, durability, and consistency against high-level opposition.
Now he faces one of the toughest tests of his career against a former world champion with vast international experience.
The bout promises an exciting clash of styles: constant pressure and nonstop offense from the Mexican against the movement, precision, and counterpunching ability of the Venezuelan.
With the flyweight world title picture moving quickly, the winner could move one step closer to fighting for the WBC world championship in one of boxing’s most competitive divisions.
Round 12: Cinco de Mayo,
A Historic Celebration of Boxing!
By Mauricio Sulaimán – WBC President – Son of José Sulaimán
(May 8th) What a way to celebrate the traditional festivities of the Battle of Puebla! The famous Cinco de Mayo as the T Mobile Arena turned into a Battel filled with a boxing card put together by the unity of promoters, who proved with facts that our sport is stronger than ever. It was gratifying to see how promoters have initiated a collaborative working process to give fans the events they deserve. Oscar De La Hoya with Golden Boy, Tom Brown with TGB, Premier Boxing Champions, Sampson Lewkowicz, Zanfer, Cancún Boxing among others; they all collaborated to make this one of the greatest cards in history.
The event consisted of 11 bouts, five of which were part of the special PPV broadcast segment on Prime Video. Each fight surpassed the last; we experienced five authentic “wars” in the ring that kept the crowd on their feet at all times. The evening culminated with the categorical demonstration by David “The Mexican Monster” Benavidez, who dealt a tough defeat to the brave, now-former unified champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez.
Benavidez entered the ring as the WBC World Light Heavyweight Champion and, following this triumph, has expressed his desire to return to the division where he has multiple options for major bouts.
The World Boxing Council prepared the traditional commemorative “Adolfo López Mateos” belt, based on the culture of Hidalgo: a beautiful piece called Tollan Tlatequi. The official presentation ceremony will take place soon in Mexico. Cinco de Mayo shone like never before, and every fighter gave their absolute best to the fans’ satisfaction.
On the other hand, Tijuana’s Jaime Munguía became a world champion once again by capturing the super middleweight title in a great “toe-to-toe” battle against the brave José Armando Reséndiz. Munguía relied on the strategic cunning of the great trainer Eddy Reynoso, as he is now part of Canelo Team. Even Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez himself was at ringside, euphoric, cheering on his stablemate. A deeply emotional moment occurred when Jaime presented his new belt to Fernando Beltrán, stating with moving words that he dedicated this triumph to him.
The WBC Silver Championship was at stake in another thrilling fight. Oscar Duarte was scheduled for this May 2nd following the withdrawal of Richardson Hitchins, who decided not to fight just a month ago. Oscar De La Hoya and Eric Gómez kept their promise and matched him against the gritty Tashiro Fierro.
Fierro’s story is one worth telling: last year he provided the “Fight of the Year” against “Pitbull” Cruz, but later went through a difficult process that led him to enter Aarón Silva’s Nueva Vida rehabilitation clinic. This was his opportunity for a grand comeback, and he took it. Unfortunately, Fierro did not make the official weight, but Duarte accepted the fight despite giving up important weight advantage. The bout resulted in a war that ended in a split decision in favor of Oscar Duarte.
In another match, Ismael Flores, who recently visited us during our traditional “Martes de Café” promising to become a Green and Gold world champion, gave a masterclass to the previously undefeated Mexican Isaac Lucero, taking the victory by unanimous decision. Also participating was Dylan Capetillo, who showed a great future by defeating James Pierce by decision in his second professional bout. Dylan was a champion of the WBC Green Belt Challenge, a highly successful amateur tournament in Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Great Activity in Australia and Japan
At the Melbourne Pavilion in Victoria, Australia, this past April 29th, local star Skye Nicolson successfully defended her WBC Interim World Featherweight title. Skye looked sensational, showing absolute dominance from the first round with her technical style and an impeccable jab that frustrated Mariah Turner. With this, she reaffirms her position in the elite and paves the way for a total unification.
From Tokyo, Japan, at the iconic Tokyo Dome before a sell-out crowd of 55,000 people, the brothers Naoya and Takuma Inoue delivered memorable performances. Takuma defeated the legendary four-division champion Kazuto Ioka with a masterclass in speed and counter-punching. Meanwhile, in the main event, “The Monster” Naoya retained his undisputed Super Bantamweight championship by defeating Junto Nakatani by unanimous decision in a high-level technical battle. Naoya improves his record to 33-0 and consolidates his legacy as one of the greatest Japanese boxers in history.
Did you know…?
David Benavidez made history on September 8, 2017, by becoming the youngest Super Middleweight World Champion of all time. He was crowned at just 20 years, 8 months, and 22 days old, after defeating Ronald Gavril, surpassing the record previously held by Darrin Van Horn.
Today’s Anecdote
We were at an annual convention in Cancún, and my father tasked me with carrying out a series of pranks to record with a hidden camera. I remember how much he enjoyed planning the prank on the chairman of the Ratings Committee, Frank Quill from Australia.
In the final session, my father asked me to give him a message: “Frank, my dad says to rank Mike Tyson at #1, because he’s making a comeback and will fight our champion, Klitschko.” It should be noted that Tyson had been retired for 7 years. After a prolonged pause and a look of absolute shock, Frank asked the committee for a recess and requested an urgent meeting with Don José. I took him to see him, and while Frank was presenting his resignation to the committee over such a request, my father couldn’t contain his laughter, and both ended up sharing a very long, hearty laugh.
Mark Vicelles New Viceral OPBF Champion!
(May 4th) In HAMAMATSU, Japan,,on a vibrant night of boxing, Filipino fighter Mark Vicelles captured the vacant OPBF Light Flyweight title by defeating his compatriot Carlo Diaz via unanimous decision.
The event, promoted by SEIEN Promotion at the Acto City Hamamatsu, featured a high-stakes clash between two of the region’s top contenders. Vicelles (ranked #9) and Diaz (#10) engaged in a tactical battle for the vacant crown. After the full ten-round distance, the judges’ scorecards were all in favor of Vicelles:
Hideaki Kato: 99-90
Hirohisa Ishikawa: 98-91
Takehiro Murahama: 99-90
With this Unanimous Decision (UD) victory, Mark , officially becomes the new champion of the division, consolidating his rise in the international rankings and strengthening plus reinforcing the Filipino presence in Asian boxing.
How Sweet It Was!: The Indiana Hall of Fame
Celebrates a Night of Champions!
By Jill Diamond, Inductee
(May 4th) Boxing in “Hoosierland” proved that the sport is not only alive but flourishing with more heart than ever. Created and orchestrated by the vision of Craig Houk, with the incomparable Pete Rivera serving as host and MC, the latest Indiana Hall of Fame induction was truly a champion’s event from start to finish.
A Constellation of Boxing Royalty
The evening featured a breathtaking lineup of legends, world champions, and key figures who have shaped the history of the “Sweet Science.” The room was filled with the kind of greatness that defines eras:
Buster Douglas: The man responsible for the most iconic upset in boxing history.
David Tua: Who provided one of the night’s most unforgettable highlights by performing a traditional New Zealand dance routine, bringing the spirit of the Pacific to the heart of Indiana.
Lamon Brewster & Marvin Johnson: Hometown heroes who continue to inspire the local boxing community.
The attendance of stars like Tracy Patterson, Henry Tillman, Angel Manfredy, and renowned boxing photographer Scott Romer, alongside greats such as Terry Austin, Bernard Hightower, Nathan Palmer and Shannon Landberg.
Moments of Emotion and Brotherhood
The ceremony was a beautiful balance of heartfelt tributes and lighthearted camaraderie. Many emotional speeches moved the audience, reflecting on the sacrifices made inside the ring and the bonds formed outside of it. The presence of Coach Smitty and other mentors underscored the evening’s focus on the lifelong impact of the sport.
Honoring the Past, Igniting the Future
To cap off the celebration, the night transitioned from honoring legends to showcasing the stars of tomorrow. We concluded with an Amateur Show: “Battle of the Regions,” a high-energy competition that proved the pipeline of talent in Indiana is as robust as ever.
As a proud inductee, I am thrilled to report that the state of boxing in Indiana is strong, vibrant, and deeply respected. The spirit of the champions of the past is clearly fueling the fire of the contenders of the future.
Little Coup As Most Valuable Promotions
Signs Lulú Juárez!
(April 27th) Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) continues to strengthen its commitment to women’s boxing globally after announcing the signing of Mexican champion Lourdes Juárez.
It’s a move that reinforces the presence of Latin talent within its growing international roster.
The deal was confirmed on April 23, 2026, as part of the company’s strategic expansion, which also included the addition of other top-ranked contenders and reigning champions.
In Juárez’s case, as the current WBC light flyweight world champion, her signing represents the addition of an active titleholder with proven experience against elite opposition.
With a professional career that began in 2013, “La Pequeña Lulu” has been a two-division world champion, including the WBC super flyweight title in 2020 and the light flyweight belt in 2024.
Throughout her career, she has faced multiple former world champions, establishing herself as one of the most consistent Stars in Mexican women’s boxing.
From MVP’s perspective, Juárez’s signing aligns with its goal of becoming the global home of women’s boxing, investing in fighters with strong credentials and the ability to headline major events.
Additionally, her debut under the promotion already has direction: Juárez is set to face Yokasta Valle in a defense of her Green and Gold Title.
The signing of “La Pequeña Lulu” not only reinforces MVP’s growth but also opens the door to bigger opportunities in her career, including potential unification bouts against the best in the division on a global platform.
The Legacy Of Don José Sulaimán:
The Revolutionary Impact Of Open Scoring!
(April 23rd) As part of the commemorations celebrated by the sporting world throughout 2026, the World Boxing Council remembers one of the greatest achievements of Don José Sulaimán Chagnón’s administration: the implementation of Open Scoring.
Don José, who not only presided over the organization but dedicated his life to humanizing and modernizing the “sweet science,” but understood that sporting justice depended on clarity. So, he championed the rule of announcing the judges’ official scorecards after the completion of the 4th and 8th rounds in championship fights.
Justice and Strategy: The Goals of Open Scoring
For Don José Sulaimán, boxing was not meant to be a sport of mysteries, secrets or unpleasant surprises when the final bell rang. The implementation of open scoring brought benefits forever changed the dynamic of combat:
Total Transparency: By informing the corners and the public of the scores after rounds 4 and 8, uncertainty was eliminated, providing certainty regarding the direction of the fight.
Strategic Adjustment: This measure allows both the boxer and their trainer to know exactly where they stand, obliging them to adjust their strategy—whether to maintain a lead or single handedly seek a knockout if they find themselves behind on the cards.
Fan Empowerment: The public and the media can follow the drama of the fight with real-time knowledge of the judges’ criteria, elevating both the excitement and the technical analysis.
“Boxing must be as transparent as possible; it is a sport of life and dreams, and justice is the only way,” Don José used to say. His achievements, which we remember with pride in 2026, prove that his management always prioritized the integrity of the athlete and the honesty of the sport above all else.
More than a decade after his passing, Open Scoring remains a living testament and vital legacy, to the vision of a man who did not fear challenging tradition to protect and better the essence of boxing. Don José Sulaimán Chagnón remains forever present in every corner of the ring, where justice and transparency prevail.
Léster Martínez Immortalized
In Guatemala’s Hall of Excellence!
(April 15th) Guatemalan boxing is experiencing a golden era, and its premier current exponent has been recognized with his nation’s highest honor.
WBC Interim World Super Middleweight Champion, Léster Martínez, was inducted into the prestigious Hall of Excellence, located at the Palacio de los Deportes in the capital’s Zone 5.
This recognition comes following his historic feat on March 21st, when he captured the WBC Green and Gold Belt by defeating American Immanuwel Aleem via unanimous decision in California.
The champion’s inclusion in this hallowed pride of place, positions him alongside Guatemalan Olympic legends Adriana Ruano, Jean Pierre Brol, and Erick Barrondo.
“Since I started in this sport, I did it with the conviction of one day becoming a champion. Today I can say that Guatemala has an interim champion, and I hope very soon to be the undisputed champion,” expressed an emotional Martínez during the ceremony.
With an undefeated professional record of 20 victories, sixteen by way of knockout and one draw, Martínez has blasted to a meteoric rise. From his gold medal at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games to his Interim coronation, the Guatemalan has demonstrated, grit, vim, resilience and dedication that characterize WBC champions.
In his recent title bout, Martínez delivered a boxing masterclass, prevailing with dominant scorecards of 119-109, 118-110, and 120-108, making it clear that he is ready for the biggest stages and the ultimate glittering prize. The WBC congratulates Léster Martínez, the National Boxing Federation of Guatemala, and all the “Chapín” people for this well-deserved tribute to an athlete who is writing the most brilliant pages of sport in his country.
Kevin Lerena vs Ryad Merhy:
Mandatory Clash Shaping The Bridgerweight Division!
(April 14th) On May 30, 2026, the Hall des Expositions in Belgium will host a key fight in the Bridgerweight division, as Kevin Lerena faces Ryad Merhy in a mandatory world championship bout.
In a division still seeking to establish itself on the global stage, this matchup represents far more than a mandatory defense—it is an opportunity to define hierarchy.
Kevin Lerena became Bridgerweight world champion in early 2025 when he scored a third-round knockout over Serhiy Radchenko.
With experience at the highest level, Lerena enters as a solid, durable fighter with strong tactical discipline.
On the other side, Merhy will look to capitalize on home advantage and his power to shift the momentum and establish himself as a central figure in the division.
The outcome will not only impact the fate of the title but also the evolution of a division that continues to grow in relevance within professional boxing.
Kevin Lerena holds a record of 31-4 with 15 knockouts.
Ryad Merhy enters with a record of 35-3 and 29 knockouts.
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