The World Boxing Organization (WBO) announced that it refuses to sanction the fight of the world champion in this version in the first middleweight Tim Tszyu and former welterweight title holder Keith Thurman, which will take place on March 30 in Las Vegas.
The WBO explained its decision for several reasons. Firstly, Thurman is not in her rankings, and only boxers from the top 15 can be selected for a voluntary title defense. Secondly, the American has never fought above the welterweight division limit (up to 66.7 kg). And finally, thirdly, by the time of the battle his downtime will exceed two years.
ESPN columnist Mike Coppinger reports that in connection with this, the fight will take place in the intermediate weight category up to 70.3 kg. Thus, even if Tszyu is defeated, he will retain his championship title.
