The World Boxing Association has clarified it’s position following speculation that Leitir Mullan’s Thomas O’Toole will challenge Champion Jaime Munguía of Mexico for the World Super Middleweight Title.
It was announced on social media overnight that Boston based O’Toole, who is ranked 11th in the WBA World Rankings and North American Boxing Association Champion, would take on Munguia on October 31st as part of the Canelo Alvarez and Christian Mbilli card but a statement released later by the WBA stated that the champion must face mandatory challenger Bektemir Melikuziev instead in accordance with Rule C.10 of the WBA Championship Rules.
Under Rule C.12, regarding limitations on bouts, the champion may not face a boxer other than the official mandatory challenger within the 60 days prior to the expiration of the mandatory defense period.
However, the Association have also said that If the parties fail to reach an agreement during the stipulated negotiation period, or if either party refuses to negotiate, the Championship Committee may call for a purse bid in accordance with the WBA rules.
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