Jermell Charlo, the former undisputed super-welterweight world champion and current WBA’s champion in recess, recently invoked his rights to challenge Israil Madrimov for the WBA title. This move could significantly affect the planned match between Madrimov and Terence Crawford set for August 3 at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Charlo's decision comes after vacating his titles following a defeat last September against Canelo Alvarez at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Charlo's last fight ended in a one-sided points defeat against Canelo Alvarez. Following that loss, Charlo vacated his IBF, WBC, and WBA world titles. Now, stepping back into the ring as a 'champion in recess,' he aims to reclaim the WBA title currently held by Israil Madrimov. Madrimov recently won this title last month through a fifth-round stoppage against Magomed Kurbanov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Terence Crawford had been negotiating a fight with Madrimov for early August. Known as the undisputed welterweight champion with an undefeated record of 40-0, Crawford was planning to move up a weight class to challenge for a 154-pound world title. These plans are now under review given Charlo's claim to the WBA super-welterweight championship.
Promoter Tom Brown has officially submitted a letter of intent on behalf of Charlo to challenge Madrimov for his newly acquired WBA title. This information was confirmed by boxing insider Dan Rafael. Additionally, Gilberto Mendoza Jr., President of the WBA, has expressed intentions to order Madrimov to defend his title against Charlo.
Israil Madrimov’s side might consider offering step-aside money to Charlo in an effort to proceed with the planned bout against Crawford while preserving its status as a title fight.
Jermell Charlo holds a professional record of 35 wins (19 by knockout), two losses, and one draw. He previously dominated his division before facing setbacks against opponents like Canelo Alvarez. On the other hand, Israil Madrimov is still relatively new in his professional career but remains undefeated with ten wins and one draw.
