Jermell Charlo, once celebrated as the undisputed junior middleweight champion, has been stripped of his WBA title. With a record of 35 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw—19 of those victories by knockout—Charlo's boxing prowess is not in question. However, his inactivity and issues outside the ring have led to a significant change in his career.
Charlo last stepped into the ring against Canelo Alvarez in September of the previous year at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. In a challenge that saw him move up two weight classes, he faced a lopsided defeat. Since 2020, Charlo has only had one fight per year. His most notable recent achievement was unifying titles in 2022 after defeating Brian Castano in a rematch, their first fight having ended in a draw in 2021.
WBA President Gilberto Mendoza informed reporter Dan Rafael about the decision to strip Charlo of his title. The reasons cited include Charlo's failure to defend his undisputed title, ongoing issues outside the boxing ring, and lack of communication with the WBA concerning his future plans within the sport.
In light of these developments, Charlo has been made "champion in recess." This status indicates a temporary separation from active competition but acknowledges past achievements.
The vacant WBA title will soon find a new home. On March 8, Israil Madrimov and Magomed Kurbanov are set to face off for the title in Saudi Arabia. Madrimov enters this bout with an undefeated record of 9 wins, no losses, and 1 draw – six of those victories coming by way of knockout. He is currently ranked No. 1 by the WBA. Kurbanov also boasts an impressive record: undefeated with 25 wins, thirteen via knockout, and holds the rank of WBA No.2.
This upcoming fight offers both boxers an opportunity to claim a prominent spot in junior middleweight boxing history.
