Katie Taylor might not hold her undisputed status for much longer as the WBO has issued a warning, instructing her representative, Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn, to specify whether she intends to retain her WBO lightweight or super lightweight title. This clarification is necessary as holding titles in two separate weight classes is not permitted after her most recent undisputed win at 140 lbs against Chantelle Cameron on November 25th. The WBO has set a deadline until December 7th for Taylor to make her decision.
Despite not having fought at lightweight for over a year, favoring super lightweight bouts, the WBO is taking legitimate steps to seek clarification from Katie Taylor (23-1, 6 KO’s). Following her recent victory, Taylor is now faced with a crucial career decision, forced to relinquish one of her two WBO titles.
As of now, Taylor holds a total of eight world titles. The WBO sent a letter to Taylor and Eddie Hearn outlining the directive to relinquish one of her titles. The letter emphasizes the conditions set prior to the Chantelle Cameron (18-1, 8 KO’s) bout and the specific timeline for Taylor’s decision.
The WBO’s letter states, “On November 25, 2023, the above-referenced fighter made history by becoming a 2-division Undisputed World Champion after successfully defeating Chantelle Cameron via majority decision.” It further highlights the conditions of the sanctioning, emphasizing that Taylor has 10 days, from November 27th to December 7th, to decide or face potential intervention by the WBO.
While the WBO’s move is commendable in addressing the issue of a fighter holding titles in different weight classes, attention is drawn to the actions of other sanctioning bodies. The prevalence of corruption in boxing, exemplified by recent events like Terence Crawford’s IBF title relinquishment, underscores the need for comprehensive measures by all sanctioning bodies.
Taylor’s absence from the lightweight division has only been addressed by the WBO, raising questions about the responsiveness of other organizations. The IBF, notably opaque in their decision-making, has not yet responded to this issue. Taylor’s status as a popular figure in boxing may have influenced the leeway provided by sanctioning bodies, exposing the sport’s susceptibility to favoring fame over competitive integrity.
While Taylor and Hearn have yet to respond to the WBO’s directive, it appears that her undisputed status will be short-lived. This development opens the door for a new champion to emerge once the WBO determines competitors for the relinquished title. Taylor’s inclination toward a trilogy with Cameron at super lightweight suggests her decision, but the situation remains fluid until an official announcement is made. This impending change in Taylor’s status provides an opportunity for new talents to emerge in the future, depending on her chosen path and which division she prioritizes.
