WBC Bridgerweight division status update
WBC Bridgerweight world champion Oscar Rivas (28-1, 19KO) has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled maiden title defence to Lukasz Rozanski (14-0, 13KO).
This breaking news has opened the door for Croatian KO king Alen Babic (11-0, 10KO) to fight for the vacant strap. The 32-year-old European known as "The Savage" has fought all but two of his 11 bouts in the UK and has become a fan favourite for his all-action, take no prisoners style.
The World Boxing Council provided the following update: "The WBC regrets to announce that Oscar Rivas has suffered a serious injury of a detached retina and will not be able to fight his contracted bout with Lukasz Rozanski.
"Consequently, the WBC has placed Oscar Rivas as champion in recess until he confirms his decision about his future.
"The WBC Board of governors has voted in favor of the following resolution to immediately address the status of the Bridgerweight division:
"To order #1 Alen Babic vs #3 Lukasz Rozanski to fight for the vacant title with a 50-50 split and the winner committed to comply with 2 mandatories. The first mandatory against the winner of the final elimination between Ryad Merhy vs. Kevin Lerena.
"To order #2 Ryad Merhy vs. #4 Kevin Lerena to fight a final elimination fight with a 50-50 split and the winner fighting vs. the new champion with a 60-40 split in favor of the champion.
"The WBC starts a free negotiations period for both fights. If no agreement is reached a purse offer will be held in Mexico City on Tuesday 31 of January. Promoters may participate via Zoom."
