The weigh-in for the Top Rank event scheduled for June 7 (June 8 Japan time) at the Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia, was held the day before at the same venue. However, in the main event — the WBO World Lightweight Title match — reigning champion Keyshawn Davis (USA), who holds an unbeaten record of 13 wins (9 KOs) and 1 no contest, failed to make weight and was stripped of his title.
Davis weighed in at 139.3 pounds, exceeding the lightweight limit by 4.3 pounds. Meanwhile, the challenger, Edwin De Los Santos (Dominican Republic), ranked No. 14 in the division with a record of 16 wins (14 KOs) and 2 losses, successfully made weight at 134.7 pounds.
What was supposed to be a homecoming title defense for Keyshawn Davis has now turned into a modified world title bout — only Edwin De Los Santos can win the WBO world title if he emerges victorious.
At yesterday’s press conference, Davis, who had spoken confidently, could not hide his disappointment, saying:
“I was at my limit. Honestly, I was planning to move up to 140 after this fight anyway.”
On the other hand, De Los Santos expressed renewed determination, stating:
“I’m even more motivated now.”
He sees this as a golden opportunity to capture a world title.
The bout is scheduled as the main card on ESPN, making cancellation unrealistic. Since Davis came in near the super lightweight limit, discussions are ongoing between both camps and promoter Top Rank to determine appropriate penalties. No official decision has been announced yet.
In any case, Davis is expected to face a strict same-day weigh-in and a fine, with the key issue now being how his weight for fight day will be regulated.
There seems to be a serious issue with the fight proceeding simply through a fine imposed on Davis for missing weight. A bout between two fighters in different weight classes raises not only questions about the fundamental rules of boxing’s weight divisions, but also potential health and safety concerns.
We can only hope that no major ring accidents occur.
This article has been translated and published with permission from BOXING MASTER.
https://boxing-master.com/prof/embed/#?secret=x2hdidccEV#?secret=JaONuGYWG5
This article has been translated and published with permission from the original author.
The original content belongs to [Name of author/blog].
コメントを残す