This fight was supposed to take place on January 30 in the United States, but Don King, the American's promoter, did everything to prevent Charr from arriving at the venue on time. The Syrian with a German passport was stripped of his WBA belt and made him a "retired champion", for which the boxer had to sue the WBA and King. Before the case goes to court, 36-year-old Charr will have the opportunity to reclaim his title.
Brian is now a "regular" WBA champion after defeating Bermaine Steven, who replaced Charr. The previous auction for the Charr-Brian fight was won by Don King, promising to spend $2 million on it.
The WBA has set additional rules for the December promotion tender. The winner will have to deposit 25% of the winnings (usually 10%) and appear at the auction in person - recently, bids were held mainly via video conferencing.