Round 12: Canada The USA And Mexico,

Also United By Boxing!

By Mauricio Sulaimán – Son of José Sulaimán – WBC President

(July 8th) How difficult it is to talk about anything other than soccer, as the World Cup is getting to its final stages . The NABF is the Continental Federation affiliated to the WBC with the exact same 3 countries which hosted the FootBall Soccer World Cup, Canada, United States and Mexico, very unfortunattely all three countries have been eliminated.

The world of sports has become very small, and that is an absolute reality. Cape Verde, a country whose existence was unknown to most of humanity, was on the verge of eliminating the ultimate powerhouse—Messi’s team— Argentina, pushing them into extra time and filling the African continent with pride and emotion. Paraguay eliminated the mighty Germany and barely lost 1-0 to France; so many other countries have stepped onto the pitch to put up an unexpected fight.

Instead of celebrating a victory for our Mexican team , we are left processing the defeat against England. However, this group of young players fell with immense bravery, fighting for every ball just as they did throughout the tournament, where they arrived with four victories and zero goals conceded.

I attended the North American Boxing Federation (NABF) convention; coincidentally, the very same member countries are the hosts of the World Cup (Canada-United States-Mexico). The meeting took place in Savannah, Georgia—a beautiful, traditional small city steeped in American history. Members from these three nations gathered to celebrate the 59th anniversary of this continental federation affiliated with the World Boxing Council.

The tribute to Tommy Hearns was special; one of the greatest fighters in history joined us to receive the affection of this organization, of which he was a champion early in his career. Steve Morrow, who passed away last year, was the subject of a heartfelt tribute. Marcie, his beloved wife, received a uniform featuring Steve’s image, signed by all WBC/NABF members. On this occasion, an annual recognition was established in his honor: the “Steve Morrow Courage Award.” Year after year, an individual who truly deserves this award will be recognized; Spencer, a young boxer, was present to receive this inaugural honor. Since childhood, he dreamed of representing his country in the Olympics and later winning the WBC green belt. One tragic day, he lost his foot in a lawnmower accident. From the moment he woke up after the amputation surgery, he declared that he would continue his boxing career. His determination and tireless work in the gym, using a prosthesis on his left leg, has given us an ultimate example of resilience, courage, and bravery.

Christy Martin was also present; to anyone unfamiliar with her story, I highly recommend watching the movie that bears her name. She paved the way for women’s boxing. Don King was her promoter and made her known worldwide, even fighting on the undercards of Mike Tyson and Julio César Chávez—becoming the first woman on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Behind the fame and glamour lay a private life filled with pain due to the abominable abuse and domestic violence she suffered from her husband, who was also her trainer. Christy survived being stabbed seven consecutive times and shot. Today, she is a boxing promoter and runs her own foundation against domestic violence.

An unforgettable discussion took place during the closing dinner, a “Fireside Chat,” where two of the most prominent media figures in boxing, Barak and Bob Newman, shared the stage with Tommy Hearns, Christy Martin, Don Majeski, Duane Ford, and myself. An hour of questions and answers; you could hear a pin drop. Everyone present was marveled by everything discussed—stories, anecdotes, opinions, and jokes that made this an unforgettable event.

Duane Ford is one of the great personalities in world boxing; he judged more than 500 world championship fights across the globe, served as chairman of the Nevada Athletic Commission during the golden age of boxing, chairman of the ring officials committee, and is the current vice president of the WBC. Don Majeski is one of the most renowned historians, who has also been a journalist, manager, and promoter—someone you can talk to for days without rest about boxing, its history, and life in general.

I want to highlight the outstanding participation of the WBC headquarters team members from Mexico, who delivered a couple of presentations showcasing all the work being done, leaving all attendees amazed. Congratulations, Esteban, Paulina, Paul, and Almita!

The United States celebrated 250 years of Independence—the celebration of the nation that has produced the most world champions and hosted the most world championship fights in boxing history. The WBC created a poster recognizing some of that country’s greatest boxing icons. From Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight world champion, to the current idol of the new generations, Ryan Garcia. Featured in this image are Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, George Foreman, Joe Frazier, Jack Johnson, Sugar Ray Robinson, Joe Louis, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, Rocky Marciano, Roy Jones Jr., Oscar De La Hoya, Evander Holyfield, Bernard Hopkins, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Ryan Garcia, Claressa Shields, Laila Ali, Christy Martin, Jake LaMotta, Gene Tunney, and Ken Norton—though it could very well be a mural featuring the more than 500 champions the USA has produced.

Did you know…?

The WBC Super Featherweight Champion, Bruce Carrington, known as “Shu Shu,” defended his championship with a unanimous decision victory over Mexico’s René Palacios. The bout took place in Cleveland and utilized the open scoring rule, revealing the judges’ official scores after the 4th and 8th rounds—a rule successfully used worldwide that we hope marks the beginning of its adoption in the United States. For this fight, the WBC created a beautiful belt commemorating the country’s 250th anniversary, and Shu Shu earned this spectacular trophy.

Bruce Carrington won the belt crafted for the United States’ 250th anniversary.

Today’s Anecdote…

The Sulaimán family comes from Lebanon; my great-grandfather boarded a ship to “America” in 1901, leaving my grandfather Elías in his home country when he was only three years old. Once established in Boston, they sent him his ship ticket to join the family. Don Elías took the ship to “America,” but it arrived at the port of Veracruz, Mexico. It took him four years to finally reach Boston, where they already had a store and a bride ready for him to start his life. However, destiny led Don Elías to meet Wasila in Ciudad Victoria during his journey to the neighboring country, and he decided to return to Mexico to get married and start his family here; from that union, my father José, Uncle Héctor, and Aunt Nelly were born. The rest is history…

Agit Kabayel Recognized As The New

WBC Heavyweight World Champion!

(June 28th) The World Boxing Council proudly announces that Agit Kabayel has officially been recognized as the new WBC Heavyweight World Champion, effective June 27, 2026.

Kabayel’s ascension to the prestigious green and gold heavyweight championship is the culmination of nearly a decade of remarkable consistency inside the ring. Undefeated as a professional, the German standout has steadily climbed the ranks while overcoming every challenge placed before him, earning his place among boxing’s elite.

“The heavyweight championship has always represented the highest honor in boxing. Agit Kabayel has earned this moment through years of discipline, perseverance, and exceptional performances against world-class opposition,” said WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán. “His rise through the WBC rankings has been a true example of dedication and merit. On behalf of the entire World Boxing Council family, I congratulate Agit on becoming the new WBC Heavyweight World Champion. We are proud to welcome him into the historic lineage of champions who have worn the green and gold belt, and we wish him a long, successful, and memorable reign.”

Born in Leverkusen, Germany, to Kurdish parents, Kabayel first entered the WBC world rankings in May 2017 at No. 30 after capturing the European Boxing Union (EBU) Heavyweight Championship with a victory over Herve Hubeaux. Later that year, his impressive triumph over Derek Chisora established him among the division’s elite, propelling him into the WBC’s Top 15.

His breakthrough on the global stage came in December 2023 during the historic “Day of Reckoning” event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he stopped the previously undefeated Arslanbek Makhmudov in four rounds to capture the NABF Heavyweight Championship. The victory immediately elevated him to No. 8 in the WBC rankings.

Kabayel continued his remarkable rise in May 2024, defeating the undefeated Frank Sánchez by seventh-round knockout. The victory also earned him the WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight Championship and established him as the WBC’s mandatory challenger.

Most recently, Kabayel successfully defended the Interim title on January 10 with an impressive victory over Damian Knyba, further cementing his position as the division’s leading contender.

Throughout his distinguished career, Kabayel has accumulated an outstanding championship résumé that includes the WBC Mediterranean Heavyweight Championship, the EBU European Union Heavyweight Championship, two reigns as EBU European Heavyweight Champion, the NABF Heavyweight Championship, the WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight Championship, and the WBC Interim Heavyweight World Championship.

Additional information regarding the heavyweight division and upcoming championship activities will be announced by the World Boxing Council in the coming days.

Round 12 With Mauricio Sulaimán:

Mexico’s Greatness Takes Center Stage!

By Mauricio Sulaimán

(June 22nd)

Mexico in Grand Style Everywhere

​I had the honor of visiting our Mexican National Soccer Team as alongside the Mexican Football Federation, we organized a surprise visit from the great Mexican champion Julio César Chávez, which turned into an unforgettable encounter. Furthermore, it was superstar Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez who presented the award for Mexico’s best player in the World Cup’s opening match, during that great victory against South Africa. Boxing is proudly present in a big way during these moments when everything revolves around soccer throughout June and July.

​Mexico, our beloved Mexico, has shone brightly before the world. Television and social media images have left an indelible mark, showcasing the greatness of our beauty as a hospitable and peaceful, celebratory nation.

I have zero tolerance for those who criticize X, Y, or Z. Why is there always something bad or wrong to report ? , let the bitterness out and let us enjoy the greatness of this event, as we are the very first country to host the tournament on three occasions! Best of luck to our national team and, no matter what happens, ¡Viva México!

I have so many mixed feelings, of course I am with Mexico but on the other hand, I have so many friends from all over the world, for example, the minister of sports of South Africa, Gaytomn McKenzie is here and we will meet same as other friends like Tutikin Zavala, Dr Bock from Germany , and so many other, boxing is a family , the WBC is the home of all.

​The attention of the boxing world this past week was focused on a small town called Canastota, in New York State, where the International Boxing Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place. Once again, Mexico was present, as the “Aztec Queen,” Jackie Nava, was enshrined for eternity.

​The WBC was the first sanctioning body to create the women’s division, and Jackie was precisely our first champion, crowning herself on May 30, 2005—right on my father José Sulaimán’s birthday.

​Jackie had a magnificent career inside the ring and continues to be a champion of life outside of it. She was rightfully given a standing ovation upon receiving the highest honor any person can achieve: entering the Hall of Fame.

​Jackie joins a long list of ring legends from our country:

​Modern Men’s Category

• ​Rubén “Púas” Olivares (1991)

• ​Salvador Sánchez (1991)

• ​Carlos Zárate (1994)

• ​Miguel Canto (1998)

• ​Vicente Saldívar (1999)

• ​Pipino Cuevas (2002)

• ​Daniel Zaragoza (2004)

• ​Carlos Palomino (2004)

• ​Humberto “Chiquita” González (2006)

• ​Ricardo “Finito” López (2007)

• ​Julio César Chávez (2011)

• ​Lupe Pintor (2016)

• ​Marco Antonio Barrera (2017)

• ​Erik “Terrible” Morales (2018)

• ​Juan Manuel Márquez (2020)

• ​Rafael Márquez (2023)

​Old-Timers Category

Baby Arizmendi (2004)

​Women’s Boxing

Laura Serrano (2023)

​Ana María Torres (2024)

​Yessica “Kika” Chávez (2025)

​Non-Participants and Observers (Trainers, Executives, and Journalists)

Don José Sulaimán (2007)

​Ignacio “Nacho” Beristáin (2011)

Arturo “Cuyo” Hernández (2013)

Rafael Mendoza (2015)

​This Class of 2026 is filled with tremendous legends:

​Modern Men’s Category

Gennadiy Golovkin: A magnificent career in the middleweight division, known for his “Mexican style” and that epic trilogy against Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez. GGG was very close to the WBC and won the hearts of Mexican fans. In 2013, an interim title was ordered with plans to eventually face champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martínez. However, Miguel Cotto dethroned Martínez, then “Canelo” dethroned Cotto, and after some time, the highly anticipated Canelo vs. GGG finally happened.

Nigel Benn: A world super middleweight champion who defended his WBC title 9 times. He is one of the greatest representatives of UK boxing, known worldwide as “The Dark Destroyer.”

​Antonio Tarver: Following a controversial fight in which he lost to the legendary Roy Jones, Don José Sulaimán asked me to reach Tarver by phone right inside the ring. Right there, my father promised him an immediate rematch. Months later, Tarver achieved glory by knocking out Roy in just two rounds to become the WBC champion. Today, he is a highly successful boxing analyst for global networks.

Modern Women’s Category

​Jackie Nava: The first champion in WBC history, featuring in 18 world championship fights, and one of the global pioneers of women’s boxing.

​Naoko Fujioka: One of the greatest and most respected figures in the history of Japanese women’s boxing. Her legacy stands out not only for her technique and tremendous strength but also for breaking longevity and weight barriers in the sport. She is the first and only Japanese fighter to capture world titles in five different divisions (Strawweight, Light Flyweight, Flyweight, Super Flyweight, and Bantamweight).

​Non-Participants

Russ Anber: A great cutman who has been in the corners of major champions, in addition to his contributions through the Rival boxing glove brand.

​Frank Cappuccino: A great referee who officiated high-profile bouts across three decades, and a true gentleman inside and outside the ring.

​Jimmy Glenn: One of the most beloved, respected, and integrity-filled figures in the New York boxing world, recognized as a true gentleman both in corners and within his community. He established himself as a legendary trainer, manager, and cutman. He guided countless young amateurs in Harlem before opening his own gym in the late 1970s: the famous Times Square Gym, which he operated for over 20 years.

Dr. Edwin “Flip” Homansky: One of the most important ringside physicians in history. He became a benchmark through his role as chief medical officer for the Nevada Commission and participated in the golden era of the sport’s biggest fights. He eventually went on to serve as a commissioner for his state.

Observers

​Kevin Iole: A top-tier boxing journalist possessing the highest level of knowledge and earning worldwide respect.

​Alex Wallau: One of the most brilliant, influential, and respected minds in American sports television history, particularly remembered in the boxing community for his tenure as the lead analyst for ABC Sports during the 1980s and early 1990s.

​Old-Timers

​Jimmy Clabby: A prominent American welterweight and middleweight boxer during boxing’s legendary “Golden Era” at the beginning of the 20th century.

​The Hall of Fame started as a simple display case containing the robe of local hero and legendary champion Carmen Basilio, alongside a plaque detailing his history in the ring. Today, it is a fully-fledged museum featuring four days of events, concluding with the induction ceremony every June.

Today’s Anecdote…

​An induction that was controversial to some, but applauded by the world and confirmed as a spectacular decision, was when Sylvester Stallone was inducted in 2011. Rocky is, without a doubt, the ultimate ambassador for boxing after Muhammad Ali. He has motivated entire generations, and this very year marks 50 years since his arrival on the silver screen in December 1976. That induction class was spectacular, as Stallone entered alongside Mike Tyson, Julio César Chávez, and Kostya Tszyu. I had the great honor of accompanying my father on that occasion, where we experienced deeply emotional moments, private gatherings, and anecdotes that will live on for immortality.

The WBC Presents The Historic “Independence Belt”

To Celebrate 250 Years Of The United States

In A Grand Top Rank Event!

(June 15th) The World Boxing Council is proud to announce the creation of an unprecedented work of art in the history of the sport: the “Independence Belt.” This emblematic accolade has been designed with deep respect and admiration to commemorate the historic 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America, this coming July 4th.

Through this special edition, the WBC celebrates and pays tribute to the most important nation in the history of world boxing. The United States is, undisputedly, the country that has produced the largest number of world champions, the stage for the most legendary title fights, and the cultural epicenter of global pugilism.

Since the days of the legendary pioneer John L. Sullivan, the rich historical heritage, the spirit of freedom, and the unwavering passion of this country have been forged thanks to an unparalleled lineage of titans of the ring who transformed boxing into an art and a mass phenomenon, among whom the following stand out:

Jack Johnson: The first African-American world heavyweight champion, who broke racial and social barriers with unwavering courage and technical mastery.

Sugar Ray Robinson: Widely considered the greatest pound-for-pound boxer of all time, combining perfect speed, power, and elegance in the ring.

Muhammad Ali: “The Greatest,” a global figure who transcended the sport thanks to his charisma, social activism, and unique boxing style.

Joe Louis: Called the “Detroit Bomber,” he held the heavyweight title for nearly 12 years and achieved 25 consecutive defenses of his world championship, a historical record in said category.

Christy Martin: The great pioneer of modern women’s boxing. With her courage and ferocity, she legitimized women’s pugilism before the masses and opened the doors to major pay-per-view stages worldwide.

Laila Ali: Heiress to her father’s greatness, she dominated the ring with absolute authority and retired undefeated as a world champion, exuding power, elegance, and unparalleled charisma.

Claressa Shields: Two-time Olympic gold medalist and the first female boxer in history, regardless of gender, to become an undisputed champion in two different divisions in the four-belt era.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.: The master of defense and strategy. He retired with a perfect and immaculate record of 50 victories and 0 defeats, crowning himself world champion in five different divisions.

Rocky Marciano: The only heavyweight to retire as an undefeated world champion, accumulating a record of 49-0, with 43 of those victories coming by way of knockout.

Sugar Ray Leonard: One of the greatest figures of boxing’s “Golden Era” in the 1980s, standing out for his speed and brilliance in the ring to conquer titles across multiple divisions.

Henry Armstrong: A unique physical marvel, he was the first and only boxer in history to simultaneously hold three world championships in three different divisions during an era when there were fewer weight categories.

Mike Tyson: Who with his ferocity and devastating power became the youngest heavyweight world champion in history, paralyzing the entire world with each of his appearances.

The “Independence Belt” embodies in its design the glory of these and many other legends who left an indelible mark on human history.

This majestic commemorative belt could not have a better destination. It will be contested in the main event this coming Saturday, July 4th, inside the ring of the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio, in a spectacular boxing gala promoted by the prestigious company Top Rank.

Undefeated American Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington will arrive before his people consolidated among the elite. Carrington became the interim WBC world featherweight champion by categorically defeating Mateus Heita in July 2025, in New York. Subsequently, he conquered the absolute world title by defeating Carlos Castro with a spectacular knockout on January 31st of this year. With an unblemished record of 17 victories, 10 of them by way of knockout, “Shu Shu” will look to defend his Green and Gold belt and claim the historic patriotic trophy.

In front of him will stand the gritty Mexican fighter René Santiago Palacios. With a respectable professional record of 19 victories and 10 wins by KO, Palacios will face the most important opportunity of his career by contesting a WBC title for the first time, seeking to spoil the American celebration and take the belt back to Mexican soil.

The entire world will witness this historic evening within the framework of the July 4th celebrations. The live broadcast for all continents will be handled by the global streaming platform DAZN: dazn.com/wbc

The World Boxing Council, under the leadership of its President Mauricio Sulaimán, invites all fans to be part of this festivity that unites the history, art, and passion of boxing in a night that will be engraved with golden letters.

Francisco “Chihuas” Rodríguez

Defeats Angelina Córdova!

(June 1st) Francisco “Chihuas” Rodríguez Jr. emerged victorious in one of the most intense fights of the weekend, defeating Venezuela’s Angelino Córdova by unanimous decision in a WBC flyweight final eliminator in San Diego, California.

The bout featured a constant clash of styles between the Mexican’s pressure and the unbeaten Venezuelan’s technical skills. After twelve highly competitive rounds, the judges scored the fight 116-111, 115-113, and 115-113 in favor of Rodríguez.

One of the decisive moments came in the final round when Córdova was deducted a point for punches behind the head, a penalty that ultimately played a role in the outcome of a fight that remained competitive from start to finish.

With the victory, “Chihuas” reinforces his position among the world’s top flyweights and earns one of the most significant wins of his career in recent years.

Francisco “Chihuas” Rodríguez Jr. emerged victorious in one of the most intense fights of the weekend, defeating Venezuela’s Angelino Córdova by unanimous decision in a WBC flyweight final eliminator in San Diego, California.

The bout featured a constant clash of styles between the Mexican’s pressure and the unbeaten Venezuelan’s technical skills. After twelve highly competitive rounds, the judges scored the fight 116-111, 115-113, and 115-113 in favor of Rodríguez.

One of the decisive moments came in the final round when Córdova was deducted a point for punches behind the head, a penalty that ultimately played a role in the outcome of a fight that remained competitive from start to finish.

With the victory, “Chihuas” reinforces his position among the world’s top flyweights and earns one of the most significant wins of his career in recent years.

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.

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.

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.