Power Prevail Rematch: Kevin Lerena to defend WBC World Bridgerweight title against Ryad Merhy

WBC World Bridgerweight Champion Kevin Lerena of South Africa and the division’s number one contender, Ryad Merhy of Belgium, are set to face off in a highly anticipated rematch on May 30th at the iconic Dôme in Charleroi, Belgium.

This contest is not just a title defense, but a rematch steeped in personal history. These two warriors first met in May 2023 in South Africa, where Lerena secured a unanimous decision victory. Now, destiny brings them face-to-face once again, but this time on European soil with the Green and Gold Bridgerweight belt on the line.

Kevin Lerena (31-4, 15 KOs): Following an outstanding trajectory that led him to capture the interim title and subsequently be elevated to undisputed champion in October 2024, Lerena enters this bout on a mission to consolidate his legacy in the Bridgerweight division. The South African, known for his technique, grit and endurance, seeks to prove that his previous dominance over Merhy was no fluke.

Ryad Merhy (35-3, 29 KOs): The local favorite and current WBC No. 1 ranked contender is motivated by the chance to fight before his home crowd. Riding on the crest of a three-fight winning streak that catapulted him to the top of the rankings, Merhy—a former world champion in other divisions—now has the opportunity to claim redemption and be crowned in front of his fans in Charleroi.

This card promises to be a historic night for Belgian boxing, reaffirming the WBC’s commitment to bringing world championship fights to every corner of the globe.