World Boxing Council warns commissions over Evander Holyfield fallout
Amanda westcott
World Boxing Council chiefs met this week to discuss the fallout from the knockout of former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield last weekend.
Holyfield surrendered on 109 seconds against Vitor Belfort. But the warning signs were clear to all in pre-fight training.
“The Real Deal” sounded slow, slow, and lacking in sufficient movement. This scenario turned out to be the case on the night of the fight as well.
Fans and the media were angry with the Pay Per View event which reportedly grossed Triller $ 7.5 million in sales.
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman and others discussed it and issued a warning to those considering hosting future events involving boxing legends.
“In a brief recap of the fights that unfolded over the weekend, including the return of 58-year-old former world heavyweight and cruiserweight champion Evander Holyfield, whom Vitor Belfort defeated via TKO.
“This episode has been described as a nostalgic night. But to see a great man like Evander Holyfield lose that way was extremely sad.
“He’s a boxing legend who built a glorious history in our sport. He hadn’t fought since he beat Brian Nielsen in 2011!
World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman said there was deep concern for all those boxers who, after years of retirement, were trying to get back into the ring.
“He clarified that it is not the same thing to do an exhibition fight as to experience it as a full-fledged fight.
“So, and accordingly, the WBC is working with the various commissions to give maximum priority attention to these fights. Be extremely strict as well as vigilant with medical protocols.
Likewise, the president of the WBC explained that times are changing. Today we have to accept it.
“The new generations are approaching boxing, and we need to be empathetic and open to change. But only as long as the integrity and well-being of those who fight are not endangered. “
AWARENESS AT THE WORLD BOXING COUNCIL
He added: “In view of this very problematic situation, the World Boxing Council will immediately launch a campaign. We want to educate fighters, promoters, entertainment promotion companies, businessmen and others in the industry.
“So that they understand the dangers of returning great legends to fight, often long after retirement.”