The WBC’s chief, Mauricio Sulaiman, has confirmed that they won’t be directing heavyweight champion, Tyson Fury, towards his next obligatory bout. This decision follows their unsuccessful effort to orchestrate a match between Andy Ruiz Jr. and Deontay Wilder.
Sulaiman, in an intriguing revelation, shared that he’s reluctant to set another WBC title decider as it might obstruct the potential undisputed championship clash between Fury and the holder of the IBF, WBA, and WBO titles, Oleksandr Usyk.
However, Fury has previously dismissed the idea of a bout with Usyk, suggesting that it doesn’t promise significant financial returns. Moreover, he fears potential backlash if he were to face defeat. Fury has voiced his desire to step into a cage match post his 28th October duel against MMA contender, Francisco Ngannou, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
There’s a looming decision for the WBC: either support Fury as he pursues fights outside of boxing, using the title mainly for promotional purposes, or take principled action which could involve stripping him of the title.
For Fury to engage with non-boxers, many believe he shouldn’t retain the title as a bargaining chip.
Sulaiman, in a conversation with Boxing Social, commented on their past decision: “We were firm about orchestrating the Wilder versus Ruiz bout for the mandatory spot. However, it hasn’t come to fruition.” He added, pondering the delay, “Why rush another mandatory match that won’t measure up to Fury’s stature, especially if it might hinder a Fury-Usyk fight?”
Emphasising their stance, Sulaiman remarked, “Our intent is to facilitate a consolidated, undisputed clash. That’s our current stance.” He seems somewhat bemused by Fury’s disinterest in Usyk, citing the lack of financial allure and the inherent risks for Fury.
Sulaiman continued, “We’re ensuring that no boxer is deprived of their chance. Rankings are ever-evolving. The Wilder-Ruiz match was a genuine decider for the mandatory spot, but patience is our current strategy.”
He concluded, acknowledging Fury’s recent matchups, “Certainly, Fury’s match with Ngannou is on the horizon. He’s made efforts for bouts with Usyk, Joshua, and Ruiz. Sadly, none seem keen on facing Fury. We’ll reassess post-Ngannou and then, during our convention, we’ll designate the next mandatory bout.”
