Listen & read
The welterweight division's landscape is buzzing with potential matchups, but top stars are failing to fight one another. Here’s why this stagnation could derail the excitement for fans and fighters alike.
The list of active fighters at 147 pounds is impressive: Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, Rolly Romero, and Conor Benn lead a talented roster. However, frustration mounts as champions remain inactive. WBA champion Rolly Romero hasn't fought since winning the belt over a year ago, while Haney's last bout was in November. Garcia, who captured the WBC title in January, claims he aims to face Benn next, yet no deal has materialized.
Jack Catterall, set to fight Shakhram Giyasov for the WBA "regular" title, voices his discontent. He states, "It's frustrating for me, the whole division, for boxing, for the fans." Catterall, at 32, argues that the sport's best need to be more active, suggesting that the lack of pressure from governing bodies contributes to the logjam.
Catterall recognizes the business side of boxing but insists that fighters should push for more frequent bouts to keep the division thriving. As the sport evolves, the balance between star power and competitive matchups becomes crucial for its future.
Comments (0)