Charlo Challenges Madrimov

Insider Dan Rafael, citing his sources, reported that Jermell Charlo (35-2-1, 19 KOs) has exercised his rights as a "champion in recess" according to the WBA in the super welterweight division (up to 69.9 kg) to become the next opponent for the current WBA champion in this division, Israil Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs), via a letter sent this week to the WBA.

This move might indicate that the fight between Madrimov and the WBA, WBC, WBO welterweight champion (up to 66.7 kg) Terence Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) might not take place. It was previously reported that Terence and Israil had initiated negotiations for a fight with a tentative date and venue set.

The last time Jermell Charlo entered the ring was in September against the undisputed super middleweight champion (up to 76.2 kg) Saul Alvarez (60-2-2, 39 KOs) and lost by unanimous decision.

On March 8th, Israil Madrimov won by technical knockout against Magomed Kurbanov (25-1, 13 KOs).