Boxing's Uncertain Path WBC President Delays Tyson Fury's Mandatory Challenger Decision Amidst Usyk Uncertainty

Photo: Instagram/Tyson Fury

WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has made it clear that the organization won't be ordering Tyson Fury's next mandatory challenger just yet.

This decision comes after a previous attempt to order an eliminator fight between Andy Ruiz Jr. and Deontay Wilder failed to materialize. Sulaiman expressed his reluctance to order another WBC title eliminator, citing concerns about impeding the possibility of an undisputed championship showdown between Fury and the IBF, WBA, and WBO champion, Oleksandr Usyk.

Fury himself has already ruled out a bout with Usyk, citing it as not being financially lucrative and fearing criticism in case of a loss. He intends to venture into a cage match after his October 28th crossover bout against MMA fighter Francis Ngannou in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Photo: Instagram/Tyson Fury

This leaves the WBC in a dilemma, as they must decide whether to allow Fury to hold the title hostage for marketing purposes while he faces non-boxers or take the step of stripping him of the belt. Mauricio Sulaiman defended the WBC's stance, stating that they initially ordered Deontay Wilder to face Andy Ruiz for the mandatory position, a fight that has yet to occur.

He argued that pushing for any other mandatory challenger could obstruct Fury's path to a showdown with Usyk, which they aim to prioritize. However, Fury's lack of interest in facing Usyk due to financial concerns complicates matters.

Sulaiman clarified that the WBC is not denying opportunities to other fighters, as they continue to move up the rankings. He acknowledged that the Wilder-Ruiz fight was a genuine attempt to determine a mandatory challenger but emphasized that they are currently waiting to see what unfolds after Fury's bout with Ngannou.

The final decision regarding Fury's next mandatory challenger will likely be made at the WBC convention.

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Source: Boxing News 24

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