Kevin Lerena, previously the interim title holder and mandatory challenger, became the full champion in this category.
World Boxing Council (WBC) reported that he had received official confirmation from Lawrence Okolie (20-1, 15 KOs) about the boxer’s refusal of the bridgeweight championship belt according to the above-mentioned organization.
The reason for this step is the Briton’s desire to move to the heavyweight division and realize his long-time dream of competing for the heavyweight title.
“I was proud and happy to fight for and win the WBC Bridgerweight belt. After much consideration, it is with a heavy heart that I must relinquish the WBC Bridgerweight belt, respectfully requesting that I be included in the top five heavyweight division,” Okolie said.
After the refusal was confirmed, Kevin Lerena, who previously held the organization’s interim title and was in the status of a mandatory challenger, became the full-fledged WBC champion in bridgeweight. Back in July, the fight between Okolie and Lerena was reported as inevitable; according to information at that time, the parties were agreeing on the “last details.”
Lawrence is 31 years old. Previously, he managed to be the WBO champion in the first heavyweight division, and now he intends to change the category again.
In August, we recall, Okolie invited former heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder to “go down” a category and fight him in bridgeweight.
Okolie lost to Chris Billam-Smith in May 2023 when he lost the WBO belt. This defeat was the only one for him in his career. After that, Lawrence triumphed over the Pole Ruzanski, winning the WBC champion title.
Source: Sportarena
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