Status of the WBC super lightweight division

The WBC has received several specific requests concerning its Super Lightweight Division. The WBC Board of Governors consideration of those requests has resulted in its rulings set forth below.

WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Devin Haney requested to be placed in the status of Champion in Recess.  The WBC Board of Governors unanimously granted Champion Haney’s request and has declared him WBC World Champion in Recess.

Concurrently therewith, the WBC Board of Governors declared current Interim World Champion Alberto Puello as WBC World Super Lightweight Champion.

Pursuant to its Rules and Regulations, the WBC will order the free negotiations period for Champion Puello’s mandatory title defense against WBC #1-rated challenger and mandatory contender Sandor Martin.

Gary Antuanne Russell has petitioned that the WBC Board consider granting him an immediate rematch against now Champion Puello in light of Russell’s very competitive and close split decision loss.  After careful review, the WBC has granted an indirect rematch that will allow Russell to fight the winner of the now ordered bout between Champion Puello and Sandor Martin.

The WBC will provide updates concerning the status of the division if and when it receives and reviews additional petitions and it makes any decision.