The World Boxing Organization (WBO) lifted sanctions against Russian representatives and returned athletes to the rankings. This was reported by TASS.
Russia’s representatives were excluded from the WBO rankings in 2022 after the start of the SBO in Ukraine. The International Olympic Committee had recommended that Russian athletes not be allowed to participate in international tournaments, but in December 2023, it still allowed Russian athletes to participate in the 2024 Summer Olympics to be held in Paris. To participate, athletes must have neutral status and meet certain specified conditions.
Previously, the International Boxing Federation (IBF) lifted the sanctions against boxers. At the same time, the World Boxing Council (WBC) does not plan to lift sanctions against Russian athletes, as the organization reports TASS.
The WBO heavyweight champion is Artur Beterbiev, representing Russia. He was scheduled to fight unification with compatriot Dmitry Bivol on June 1, but the fight was postponed due to a meniscus tear during training. Bivola found a new opponent and defeated Malik Zinad on the same date.
The fight between Bivol and Beterbiev has been postponed to October 12, 2024.
Formerly Ukrainian Gvozdyk loss American Benavidez is fighting for the WBC belt.