WBC HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION STATUS

On May 15, 2016, the WBC granted Champion Wilder the right to make a voluntary defense of his World Title, which defense took place on July 16, 2016.  In connection with that defense, Champion Wilder injured his right hand and arm, which injuries required surgery.  As a result of his injuries and surgeries, Champion Wilder is expected to be inactive until sometime in 2017.

Deontay Wilder is confirmed as WBC heavyweight champion and will have the time to recover from his multiple injuries and surgeries. Wilder will retain his rights as champion, including the 70% advantage in case his mandatory bout needs to go to purse bid process, once he returns to action.

An Interim championship is ordered between the 2 highest available contenders, Alexander Povetkin # 1 and Bermane Stiverne #2.

The free negotiations period begins today and if there is no agreement a purse bid will be conducted on Friday September 16th. The split will be 50% for each fighter. Clean boxing program VADA testing will be mandatory as well as the 10% bonus from the bid for the winner of the contest.