THE DOORS TO LATIN AMERICA, THE DOORS TO LATIN AMERICA, TIJUANA B.C. , HOST VENUE OF TIJUANA B.C. , HOST VENUE OF OUR NEXT FEMALE CONVENTIONOUR NEXT FEMALE CONVENTION

“Here starts our homeland” that’s Tijuana´s “Here starts our homeland” that’s Tijuana´s motto, it is the first Latin America city that motto, it is the first Latin America city that shares border with San Diega, US anf is the shares border with San Diega, US anf is the fifth most populated city of Mexico having fifth most populated city of Mexico having more than 1, 600,000 habitants on it. more than 1, 600,000 habitants on it.

Tijuana is a city of great commercial and Tijuana is a city of great commercial and cultural activity, its history began with the cultural activity, its history began with the

arrival of the Spanish on the XVI Century.arrival of the Spanish on the XVI Century. January 2016 will be an spectacular year, January 2016 will be an spectacular year, the second World Boxing Council female the second World Boxing Council female convention will be hosted on this convention will be hosted on this magnificent place.magnificent place.

The greatest female fighters will travel to The greatest female fighters will travel to Tijuana with the main goal of spreading and Tijuana with the main goal of spreading and keep developing this sport as we are able to keep developing this sport as we are able to enjoy all of its cultural and historic enjoy all of its cultural and historic attractions.attractions.

THE DOORS TO LATIN AMERICA, TIJUANA B.C. , HOST VENUE OF OUR NEXT FEMALE CONVENTION

“Here starts our homeland” that’s Tijuana´s motto, it is the first Latin America city that shares border with San Diega, US anf is the fifth most populated city of Mexico having more than 1, 600,000 habitants on it.

Tijuana is a city of great commercial and cultural activity, its history began with the

arrival of the Spanish on the XVI Century. January 2016 will be an spectacular year, the second World Boxing Council female convention will be hosted on this magnificent place.

The greatest female fighters will travel to Tijuana with the main goal of spreading and keep developing this sport as we are able to enjoy all of its cultural and historic attractions.

IndexEditorial

Future fights

WBC Emerald Belt

May-Pac

Roman Gonzalez

Golovkin

Viktor Postol

Jorge Linares

Zulina Muñoz

Mikaela Lauren

Erica Farias

Alicia Ashley

Ibeth Zamora

Yessica Chavez

Soledad Matthysse

Leo Santa Cruz becomes Diamond champion

Francisco Vargas

Saul Alvarez

Floyd´s final Hurrah

WBC Cares

WBC Annual Convention

Knowing a Champion: Deontay Wilder

Muhammad Ali Honored

Mauricio Sulaiman is presented with the keys to the city of Miami

PRESIDENT DANIEL ORTEGA: a great supporter of Nicaraguan boxing

WBC President pitches in

Alexis Arguello remembered in Nicaragua

Wayne McCullough day

Carlos Zarate´s book

Sal Sanchez

World Champion

Pau´s Jab

Directorio:

“WBC Boxing World” is the official magazine of the World Boxing Council.

. Executive DirectorMauricio Sulaimán.

SubdirectorVíctor Silva.

Marketing ManagerJosé Antonio Arreola Sulaimán

Managing EditorFrancisco Posada Toledo

Traducción Paul Landeros / James Blears

Design DirectorAlaín M. Flores

PhotosNaoki Fukuda

Sumio Yamada Alma Montiel

José Rodríguez

Contributing EditorsVíctor Cota (WBC Historian)

José Antonio Arreola Sulaiman Juan Pereira

James Blears Jamie Parry and Robbie Oliver

Paulina Brindis

Dear readers:

We are entering the last round of 2015, and what a great year it's been!

We'll always remember this time as the farewell of Floyd Mayweather- an icon of boxing and an undefeated superstar, who was able to say a fighting farewell in peak condition.

This year, our sport has become more solid and all the stronger, with the fights we all wanted to see- among them: Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao, Leo Santa Cruz vs. Abner Mares and Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez vs. Miguel Cotto.

In this special edition, we focus on the most relevant and important aspects of the boxing year, which has made our sport and our WBC family all the more united. Our paramount aim will always be to strive for the fairest and best conditions for all boxers.

Kind greetings and my very best wishes for success and health to you and your families during this Festive Season, and for the coming year.

Mauricio SulaimanWorld Boxing Council President

Future Fights

World and Silver Championship

BOUT WEIGHT DATE PLACE WBC SUP. JUDGE JUDGE JUDGE REFEREE

Deontay Wilder (USA) (Voluntary) Heavy 16/01/2016 New York, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA DiBella Entertainment

TBA USA Lou DiBella

Robert Guerrero (USA) (Tournament) Welter 23/01/2016 California, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TGB Promotions

Danny Garcia (USA) USA Tom Brown

Roman Gonzalez (Nicaragua) Fly February TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

TBA 2016

Julio Ceja (Mexico) Superbantam 26/03/2016 California, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Hugo Ruiz (Mexico) USA

Grigory Drozd (Russia) Cruiser March TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Ilunga Makabu (Congo) 2016

Jorge Linares (Venezuela) (Mandatory) Light TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Dejan Zlaticanin (Montenegro)

Suriyan Sor Rungvisai (Thailand) (Silver+ Bantam TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Anselmo Moreno (Panama) Final Elim.)

Oscar Escandon (Colombia) (Interim) Feather TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Robinson Castellanos (Mexico)

Saul Juarez (Mexico) (Final Minimum TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Oswaldo Novoa (Mexico) Elimination)

Yu Kimura (Japan) Lt. Fly TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Jonathan Taconing (Philippines)

Carlos Cuadras (Mexico) Superfly TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (Thailand)

Badou Jack (Gambia/Sweden) Supermiddle TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

Julio Cesar Chavez (Mexico)

Viktor Postol (Ukraine) Superlight TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

TBA

Adonis Stevenson (Haiti/Canada) Lt. Heavy TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

TBA

Future Fights

Female and Affiliated

BOUT WEIGHT DATE PLACE WBC SUP. JUDGE JUDGE JUDGE REFEREE

Jerry Tomogdan (Philippines) (Internat.) Lt. Fly 02/12/2015 Manila, Juan Ramon Guanzon Fernando Batistil Jerrold Tomeldan Oliver Garcia Benigno Peñafiel United Boxing Promotions Richard Claveras (Philippines) Phlippines Philippines Philippines Philippines Philippines Ryuta Kato

Mario Andrade (Mexico) (Latino Fly 03/12/2015 Mexico City, Marco Sandoval Rafael Ortiz Herminio Cuevas Abraham Ibarra Rafael Saldaña HS Promotions Ivan Meneses (Mexico) Silver) Mexico Mexico Mexico Mexico Mexico Hisa Furokawa

Carlette Ewell (USA) (Female Heavy 05/12/2015 North Carolina, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBASonja Fox (USA) Silver) USA Walter Johnson III

Orlando Vazquez (Puerto Rico) (Fecarbox) TBA 05/12/2015 Florida, TBA Thomas Nardone TBA TBA TBA TBATBA USA

Jessica Chavez (Mexico) (Female) Fly 12/12/2015 TBA Juan Jose Herrera Jr. Javier Camacho Victor Cervantes Omar Mintun Jr. Guadalupe Garcia Promociones del Pueblo Simona Galassi (Italy) Mexico Mexico Mexico Mexico Oswaldo Kuchle

Mateusz Masternak (Poland) (EBU) Cruiser 12/12/2015 London, Enza Jacoponi Manuel Oliver Adrio Zannoni Robin Dolpierre Massimo Barrovecchio Matchroom SportTony Bellew (United Kingdom) United Kingdom OK Spain Italy France Italy Eddie Hearn

Anthony Joshua (United Kingdom) (Internat.) Heavy 12/12/2015 London, Mauro Betti TBA TBA TBA TBA Matchroom SportDillian Whyte (Jamaica) United Kingdom OK Eddie Hearn

Luke Campbell (United Kingdom) (Internat.) Light 12/12/2015 London, Mauro Betti TBA TBA TBA TBA Matchroom SportTBA United Kingdom OK Eddie Hearn

Josh Warrington (United Kingdom) (Internat.) Feather 12/12/2015 London, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA Matchroom SportTBA United Kingdom Eddie Hearn

Sheldon Moore (Belgium) (Internat. Silver Superwelter 12/12/2015 Hainaut, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA Bufi Family Boxing Club Islam Teffahi (Tunisia) + Francophone) Belgium Maurice Bufi

Timur Nikarkhoev (Russia) (Youth) Supermiddle 12/12/2015 Hainaut, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA Bufi Family Boxing Club Ramazi Gogichashvili (Georgia) Belgium Maurice Bufi

Giemel Magramo (Philippines) (Internat.) Fly 12/12/2015 Manila, Nasser Cruz German Tayag Benigno Peñafiel Jerrold Tomeldan Bruce McTavish Elorde Promotions TBA Phlippines Phlippines Philippines Philippines New Zealand Johnny Elorde

Jerobe Santana (Spain) (Youth) Light 18/12/2015 Gran Canaria, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA Gallego Prado Promociones Winston Campos (Nicaragua) Spain TBA

Joseph Diaz (USA) (NABF) Feather 18/12/2015 California, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA Golden Boy PromotionsHugo Partida (Mexico) USA Oscar De La Hoya

Ryad Merhy (Belgium) (Internat. Silver) Cruiser 19/12/2015 Hainaut, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBASylvera Louis (Canada) Belgium Alain Vanackere

Mouhamed Sder (Belgium) (Francophone) Welter 19/12/2015 Hainaut, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBAImad Azaroui (Belgium) Belgium Alain Vanackere

Yuko Kuroki (Japan) (Female) Minimum 20/12/2015 Fukuoka, Won Kim Jerrold Tomeldan Yoshikazu Furuta Jae Bong Kim Raymond Chang TBANancy Franco (Mexico) Japan Philippines Japan South Korea Hong Kong Tomoko Koga

Zulina Muñoz (Mexico) (Female) Superfly December Mexico City, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBATBA 2015 Mexico

Yazmin Rivas (Mexico) (Female) Bantam TBA Baja California Norte, TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA Promociones ZanferCatherine Phiri (Zambia) Mexico Fernando Beltran

Cecilia Braekhus (Norway) (Female) Welter TBA North Rhine-Westphalia, Jill Diamond TBA TBA TBA TBA K2 Promotions Ornella Domini (Switzerland) Germany Thomas Loeffler

Martha Salazar (USA) (Female) Heavy TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBATBA Blanca Gutierrez

Melissa McMorrow (USA) (Female Fly TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBATyrieshia Douglas (USA) Internat.) Blanca Gutierrez

Roldan Aldea (Philippines) (Youth) Light TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA Golden GlovesTBA South Africa Rodney Berman

* ALL BOUTS LISTED ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND NOT FULLY LICENSED, THEREFORE THIS INFORMATION IS ONLY PRELIMINARY

For the most anticipated fight of recent history between Floyd Mayweather And Manny Pacquiao, World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman introduced the Emerald Belt- a unique "Jewel in the Crown," proudly manufactured by Mexicans.

This Dickens of a belt created great expectations amongst visitors and fans, including every single person who participated in this unique moment in history. The Belt was presented to the winner who was Floyd Mayweather Jr, the best pound for pound of today and future hall of famer.

Floyd Mayweather used distance, speed, subtlety and ring generalship, stemming the charges of Manny Pacquiao, to win a proficient unanimous decision at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, recording his forty eighth victory in an unblemished career, retaining his World Boxing Council welterweight title, to be presented with the magnificent Emerald Belt by WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, earning each and every one of its three thousand and seven sparklers.

As the gold dust settled from the richest fight in history, Judge Burt A Clements saw it as a 116-112 victory for Floyd. So did Judge Glenn Feldman, while Judge Dave Moretti scored it a wider 118-110, for calm, calculating and unflappable Floyd.

Manny (57-6-2, 38 KO's) was the more aggressive throughout, but often had difficulty figuring out the longer reach of Floyd (48-0, 26 KO's) who avoided many lunges, using his unique defensive skills to frustrate and deceive decisive impacts, slipping many of Manny's , while deflecting as well as thwarting yet more. Manny's fists often caused breezes, but many times only vaporized fresh air. After a cautious slow pace feeling out opening round, Manny threw caution to the wind and charged in round two, bobbing and weaving to try and cut down the distance, as Floyd kept him at bay with a pawing left jab. Manny had more success in the third connecting to the head, but at the cost of returning retaining jabs. His aggression was exciting, but he was not connecting that much. The two exchanged a long cold stare as the bell rang.

Floyd was successfully range finding in the fourth, snapping Manny's head with a long right and a crisp left to the body and he moved off the ropes. Manny suddenly connected with a big left hook to the head and lashed Floyd with combinations. But with gloves held high, Floyd weathered the storm, dismissively shaking his head in true old pro fashion, confirming it had indeed hurt. The fifth proved a turning point. Two long guided rights clipped Manny's head, and as he moved in to retaliate, another bigger right checked his progress. While adroitly moving away, Floyd was impeccably timing his long snaking left jabs.

Floyd built on his success in the seventh. Two long perfectly timed straight rights jolted and stung Manny. Floyd wasted no time following up with a left right combination which appeared to wobble and badly hurt Manny for the first time in the fight. But fighter as he is, Manny finished the round with the flourish of a great right left combination. Manny charged in the eighth landing a lusty left to Floyd's chest, but Floyd then struck like a cobra with a powerful counter right to the head, following up with a left hook which neatly found Manny's face. Manny was steaming forward at the end of the round, but Floyd was effectively evading. More of the same in the ninth, with Floyd employing a wide stance and remaining watchful. But in the tenth a big left hook from Manny snapped Floyd's head back and he retreated, reverting to the left jab. At the end of the round, Manny happily grinned.

The eleventh belonged to Floyd who opened up with a long left and then and powerful right to Manny's sweat drenched hairline, topping it off with whiplash right. Floyd decided to stand his ground and Manny gratefully went to the body. So Floyd was back on the move and Manny was simply unable to cut down the gulf of distance.

Prior to the twelfth and final round, the two hugged and then immediately resumed hostilities. A stiff left jab from Floyd found the mark and he was moving, moving and moving. In the dying seconds Manny finally caught up and semi connected with a smattering of punches, but was off target.

MEGAFIGHT, which will really rake it in, displayed Floyd Mayweather’s superlative uncanny ringcraft, boxing brain, defensive capabilities and accuracy in counter attacking. Manny. Perpetually as brave as a lion, visibly had problems in reducing the distance. That meant he wasn't ever able to sustain an attack and transform a boxing match into a slugfest. Both showed respect and admirable sportsmanship by embracing and having a short smiling and friendly chat.

MAYWEATHER RETAINS WBC WELTERWEIGHT CROWN DEFEATING PACQUIAO BY UD

Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, brilliantly defended his WBC flyweight title, wearing down and untimely overwhelming "Hawaiian Punch" Brian Viloria by TKO in the ninth round, underlining his accolade of Pound for Pound Best in the whole wide World. A ex world Champion himself, Brian Viloria (36-5, 22 KOs) knew the score, grasping the fact that his best chance was to stay busy, against the formidable Chocolatito ( 44-0, 38 Kos). Brian started aggressively, winning round one. Yet Roman, defended effectively, slipping punches, moving out of range and taking other blows on his forearms or gloves. He was absorbing knowledge, yet not punishment.

Brian started round two in a similarly aggressive mode, with a still pensive Roman awaiting opportunities. Roman then struck with a belting left to Brian's midriff, and a powerful right uppercut to the side of Brian's chin, seconds before the bell. The study period was now over and Roman went to work. A big left hook and a big right hook landed on Brian's head and more followed. But Roman was taking his time, picking his punches, maintaining his defence and displaying masterful patience. A winging right hook from seemingly nowhere, bounced off Brian's head and dropped him hard. He did well to get up, but Roman's didn't either wade in or jump in. He continued his skillful and methodical demolition plan, from the basement upwards.

By the fifth Roman was punishing Brian's body, and then two right hooks clipped the Challenger's head in quick succession just before the bell. Brian was becoming increasingly pale, his left cheek was swelling cherry red and the pep in his own punches was ebbing away.

Roman's short range fighting was appreciably more effective than his long range stuff, and it was beginning to sap the strength of Brian, who's exceptional conditioning was keeping him upright in the eye of a worsening storm.

At the beginning of the sixth, Brian's brows were heavily greased, but it didn't deflect a lighting and sustained attack. He was caught by a clipping right uppercut followed by a left uppercut, a right hook and an ensuing three punch combination. Brian was bravely fighting back, but shipping a lot of punishment and weathering the worst of it.

In the eighth a huge right hook to the head, shook Brian. Roman who's punch rate was accelerating up several gears, unleashed his full arsenal and Brian was fading. His mouth was open and his nose was bleeding. This hadn't gone unnoticed. The Ring Docter checked him over prior to the start of the ninth round.

Knowing more than sensing the end was neigh, Roman moved in and attacked, Brian attempted to move away, but was trapped and walloped as a static target. Referee Benji Esteves moved in to mercifully stop it at two minutes fifty three seconds.

Roman gently patted Brian on top of the head with his gloved right hand and proffered a friendly, wistful and slightly apologetic smile. Multi talented, exceptionally hard hitting, accurate, with a solid defence, a blistering attack, an astute ring general's brain patience and instinctive brilliance, triple world champion Roman "Chocolatito" is already an all time GREAT.

“Chocolatito” melts Brian

Undefeated Kazakh and World Boxing Council Interim Middleweight champion, Gennady “GGG” Golovkin, TKO's Canadian David Lemieux in the eighth round of the main event of the card organized by K2 Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Golovkin (34-0, 31 KOs) dominated and patiently unraveled Lemieux (34-2, 31 KOs) with the brilliantly measured use of a long jarring left Jab, which paved the way to a variety of other heavy blows. That tempered jab, held the Canadian at bay, providing other dividend opportunities, especially the left hook to the side of the head which Gennadly used selectively, but to great effect.

The Canadian, who sported a side shorn hairstyle harking back to the 1930's, never quit and had some parting success with his right hand. But the ratio of eye watering impacts, seemed to be roughly and toughly four to one against him. Virtually every time David had some success, he was severely and clinically punished. His offense was returned with gilt edged interest. Following a big left to the liver in the fifth, David took a knee and was caught with another punch, due the ongoing momentum. Intend was obviously missing, so Steve Willis issued no warning to Gennady, who immediately apologized.

As the fight wore on the wear and tear to David's face visibly worsened, and his nose was bleeding heavily. Just after the start of round seven, the action was briefly paused, as the Ring Doctor took a judiciously careful look at him, allowing him to continue... for the time being.

In round eight Gennady dug a searing left hook into the Canadian's liver, followed by a big right, a straight left and another huge left. David tried to slip away but was followed and battered. Although no one punch of the ensuing flurry, contained concluding Sunday venom, almost all of them were connecting with chilling and thudding accuracy. Referee Steve Willis rapidly moved in at just the correct moment, to prevent serious damage to the Canadian, who was not effectively defending himself or fighting back. The stoppage time was one minute and thirty two seconds.

GOLOVKIN TKO'S LEMIEUX

Lanky Ukrainian Viktor “The Iceman” Postol (28-0, 12KO) Knocked out Argentinian Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse (37-4, 34KO) to win the vacant WBC super lightweight title at the StubHub Center in Carson, California.

The fight got off to an exciting start with Matthysse mounting an all out aggressive offense, but Postol effectively used his height and albatross like reach to strategically render much of Matthysse’s onslaught attempts ineffective.

By the half way mark, Matthysse found his rhythm, wobbling Postol up with a powerful right hook. However, Postol rebounded from Matthysse’s assault by lodging an effective combo series to end the round, on more than even terms.

With just seconds left in round ten, Matthysse was hit by a pinpoint peach of left uppercut that sent him crashing to the canvass, where he was counted out on his haunches.

At the time of the stoppage, Postol was up 86-85 on two cards and Matthysse was up 86-85 on the third card.

Viktor“Iceman” Postol

is the newWBC superlightweight

champion

Oh Boy! Jorge "Niño de Oro" Linares, from Venezuela, defended his World Boxing Council title in a sensational ring war, getting back up off the burning deck to regally defeat tough Brit warrior, Kevin Mitchell in round ten, at the O2 Arena of London, England.

Linares had to dig so very deep for this deserved victory. He was felled with a stunning combination in the 5th, and barely made it back upright.

But he somehow survived, slowly inching and edging back into a battle royal, finally dropping Mitchell in the tenth.

An accidental clash of heads had earlier cut Kev, but as the fight wore on his face showed increasing marks of other wear and tear from other sources.

A humble and grateful Jorge said afterwards: “I never expect that Mitchell was so exceptional strong. He's great fighter and a tough rival. Thank God I got the victory!".

GEORGE VII! LINARES DEFENDS WBC LIGHTWEIGHTCROWN IN ENGLAND AFTER WORLD WAR THREE!

Mexican Zulina Muñoz defeated Gabriela Bouvier from Uruguay by unanimous decision to retain her WBC super flyweight title in a fight held at the Olympic Swimming Pool in Mexico City.

From the opening bell, Zulina, who was progressively shaking off nine months of ring rust inactivity, came out looking for the knockout by connecting with solid combinations. "La Gaby" who last time around was TKO'd in ten, vowed she'd be in appreciably better condition for this one and so it proved. She absorbed Zulina's best blows and came back with a welter of her own to make it less than a comfortable night for the Champion, who was none the less physically and technically superior.

With this result, Zulina Muñoz improved to 58-1-2 with 44 knockouts, while Gabriela Bouvier fell to 12-6-1 and 2. After ten rounds, the scores were 99-90, 98-91 and 99-91.

Zulina defeats Bouvier with UD in a rematch

Swedish Champion, Mikaela "Destiny" Lauren (24-3, 9 KOs) only needed four rounds to defeat Victoria Cisneros (11-18-2, 4KOs) on home turf.

Since the very fist minute Mikaela threw accurate combinations and Cisneros was not able to handle Miakela´s power. The end came in round four with the Referee´s intervention.This was the first defense of Mikaela´s WBC super welterweight Crown that she conquered last year.�

Fate decrees that Lauren's next fight will be a mandatory defense, and the most likely contender is French puncher, Anne Sophie Mathis.

MIKAELA DEFENDS WBC CROWN IN FOUR

WBC super lightweight Champion Erica “Pantera” Farias, emphatically proved she's the best female fighter in the 140 lib division, defeating Sweden's WBC Interim Champion Klara Svensson, by unanimous decision, in Denmark.

Frederiksberg was the attractive host venue of this crucial point proving bout, where the two greatest fighters of this category clashed.Farias, with 20 victories, 10 of them by KO and just one loss, came to this fight after defeating her compatriot, Alejandra “Locomotora” Oliveras, following a bruisingly tough contest. The “Swedish Princess," with an undefeated record of 15 victories, 5 of them by KO, after defending her Interim Crown, defeating Italian, Lucía Morelli.

The Judge Scorecards were very clear: Esa Lehtosaari ( Finland) 98-92, Fabian Guggenheim (Switzerland) 96-93 and David John Irving (Ireland) 96-94.

So, “Pantera” Farias fulfilled her pledge of ending Svensson's undefeated record and positioning herself atop the premiere tier of women's boxing.

UP TO SCRATCH “PANTERA” FARÍAS

Alicia "Slick" Ashley determined to stick at it, and she made history by becoming the most magnificently mature female world champion ever!!!

At the tender age of just 48, she's just shattered the record of Bernard Hopkins, who won his last world title (so far) some days younger.

Vastly experienced southpaw Alicia Ashley defeated Irish Christina McMahon by Unanimous decision, becoming the new WBC super bantamweight champion of the world in a bout which took place at the Aviator Sports Complex in Brooklyn, New York.

The WBC Female World Super Bantamweight Title became vacant becuase reigning Champion Jackie Nava is pregnant. Therefore, "La Princesa Azteca" has been promoted to "Champion Emeritus" status and may challenge for the World Title whenever she chooses to return into the ring.

The World Boxing Council congratulates Alicia Ashley for this incredible, dedicated, historic and tremendous achievement!

ABSOLUTELY REMARKABLE! ALICIA ASHLEY WBC CHAMPION AGAIN

WITH A VINTAGE GOLDEN PERFORMANCE!

Ibeth "Roca" Zamora successfully defended her WBC light flyweight crown against challenger Esmeralda "Joya" Moreno, in a sensational fight, which brimmed with action and in which both fought flat out for the entire ten rounds, more than fulfilling the prior prediction of barnstormer.

A huge crowed numbering more than 6,000 fans came to Metepec, State of Mexico, eager to see who would win their third encounter, as both had notched a pervious win against the other.

Hooded Esmeralda was up in the ring first, and then it was Ibeth's turn, sporting a green, white and red featured headdress.

After four rounds Ibeth was ahead and as the announcement boomed out, it visibly energized Esmeralda who grimly launched a blistering attack in response. Unlike so many of Ibeth's opponents, Esmeralda wasn't wilting in the face of an unremitting firestorm onslaught. Rather, she was trying to maintain distance to get leverage on her punches, but also alternating by standing her ground and slugging back. Roca's ruthless relentlessness peaked in round nine as she willed herself to significantly up her punch rate. Joya simply refused to buckle and fought back magnificently. "It takes two baby.”

Roca punctuated the beginning of round ten with a withering left uppercut, but then ran into jarring left jabs from Joya who backed it up by long range combinations to the head.

It had been a very hard bout. Both fighters are proud warriors and neither stubbornly wanted to concede one jot or iota. During much of the action, Roca had fought open mouthed. She had winced as cracking straight punches had snapped her head back, but never flinched in delivering a welter of her own answering blows which proved decisive. Unbowed and defiant to the final bell, Esmeralda who hadn't lost this title in the ring, and was coming back from being a Champion in Recess, had shown her Champion's class. She had pushed her friend Ibeth to the absolute limit. It brought out the tremendous best in both, to produce a magnificent and a memorable contest. What a fight!

The thousands of fans fully and duly recognized they'd seen combined greatness and they were ready with a standing ovation. The scores of the Judges were: 97-93, 96-94, 97-94, all for Ibeth.

Ibeth Zamora defeats Moreno and defends her WBC title

And the new WBC yweight championof the world:Yessica Chavez

In front of a full house of her In front of a full house of her devoted fans in Ecatepec, devoted fans in Ecatepec, Jessica “Kika”Chavez, Jessica “Kika”Chavez, fought the best fight of her fought the best fight of her career to defeat Arely career to defeat Arely Muciño and win the WBC Muciño and win the WBC female flyweight crown. female flyweight crown.

Kika was in supreme Kika was in supreme physical shape after a harsh physical shape after a harsh and prolonged stint in the and prolonged stint in the chilly climes of Nevada de chilly climes of Nevada de Toluca, training at altitude Toluca, training at altitude and it definitely showed, in and it definitely showed, in her non unremitting pace, which never her non unremitting pace, which never slackened, for the entirety of the action packed slackened, for the entirety of the action packed ten rounds, at the Emliano Zapata Sports ten rounds, at the Emliano Zapata Sports Center. This was reflected in the Judges Center. This was reflected in the Judges scores of 97-93, 99-91 and 100-90. scores of 97-93, 99-91 and 100-90.

Arely hadn't fought since winning the title from Arely hadn't fought since winning the title from Japan's Shindo Go in a tremendous and oh so Japan's Shindo Go in a tremendous and oh so brave performance, on home turf in Monterrey brave performance, on home turf in Monterrey last December, and the inactivity counted last December, and the inactivity counted heavily against her. The “Ametralladora” or heavily against her. The “Ametralladora” or machine gun burst punches in her arsenal, machine gun burst punches in her arsenal, were either missing or mistimed.were either missing or mistimed.

She was often hitting thin air with vaunted left She was often hitting thin air with vaunted left hooks, and towards the end of the fight, she hooks, and towards the end of the fight, she was becoming visibly frustrated with Kika's was becoming visibly frustrated with Kika's continued quicksilver continued quicksilver elusiveness. elusiveness.

The key to Kika's The key to Kika's success, was greater success, was greater accuracy and accuracy and consistency via a consistency via a ramrod left jab and ramrod left jab and astute well timed astute well timed counter punching in counter punching in front of a crowd front of a crowd including her including her Parents...who were Parents...who were pleadingly willing her on. pleadingly willing her on. “I feel so happy, this was for all Ecatepec. I “I feel so happy, this was for all Ecatepec. I promised my people they would have a new promised my people they would have a new World Champion. She was not going to defeat World Champion. She was not going to defeat me at my Home. If she wants it I will accept to me at my Home. If she wants it I will accept to have a rematch fight, even at her home in have a rematch fight, even at her home in Monterrey," commented a jubilant Kika, after Monterrey," commented a jubilant Kika, after being presented with the wonderful green and being presented with the wonderful green and gold WBC Belt.gold WBC Belt.

In front of a full house of her devoted fans in Ecatepec, Jessica “Kika”Chavez, fought the best fight of her career to defeat Arely Muciño and win the WBC female flyweight crown.

Kika was in supreme physical shape after a harsh and prolonged stint in the chilly climes of Nevada de Toluca, training at altitude and it definitely showed, in her non unremitting pace, which never slackened, for the entirety of the action packed ten rounds, at the Emliano Zapata Sports Center. This was reflected in the Judges scores of 97-93, 99-91 and 100-90.

Arely hadn't fought since winning the title from Japan's Shindo Go in a tremendous and oh so brave performance, on home turf in Monterrey last December, and the inactivity counted heavily against her. The “Ametralladora” or machine gun burst punches in her arsenal, were either missing or mistimed.

She was often hitting thin air with vaunted left hooks, and towards the end of the fight, she was becoming visibly frustrated with Kika's continued quicksilver elusiveness.

The key to Kika's success, was greater accuracy and consistency via a ramrod left jab and astute well timed counter punching in front of a crowd including her Parents...who were pleadingly willing her on. “I feel so happy, this was for all Ecatepec. I promised my people they would have a new World Champion. She was not going to defeat me at my Home. If she wants it I will accept to have a rematch fight, even at her home in Monterrey," commented a jubilant Kika, after being presented with the wonderful green and gold WBC Belt.

In what turned out to be a rough and tumble affair, Argentina’s Edith Soledad Matthysse (14-7-1,1 KO) won the WBC female featherweight title on Saturday night in Caseros, Buenos Aires with a ten round unanimous decision victory over Canada’s Jelena Mrdjenovic (35-9-1, 19 Kos).

Matthysse, trained by her brother Lucas, came out with fury in the opening round but was quickly shut down by Mrdjenovic’s high guard and stern jab. The Canadian used her superior skills to back the Argentinian up and came forward for the duration of the bout utilizing her authoritative lead left.

Matthysse was on her bicycle and back-peddled with fleet footwork throughout, but would spring forward and there were frequent clashes of heads. She also spent more time tying Mrdjenovic up in clinches and punching at short range. Mrdjenovic appeared to land the cleaner text book punches. but Matthysse did have her moments. There were some furious exchanges late in the fight which repeatedly had the crowd on its feet.

After ten rounds were completed, the Judges awarded the fight to the Argentinian by scores of 96-94 – Samuel Conde Lopez (Puerto Rico), Gustavo Padilla (Panama) 98-92, and Stanley Christodoulou (South Africa) 97-93.

SOLEDADMATTHYSSE IS THE NEW WBCFEATHERWEIGHTCHAMPION

LEO SANTA CRUZCONQUERED THE WBC DIAMOND BELT

At the Staples Center of Los Angeles, Leo “Terremoto“ Santa Cruz conserved his undefeated record and conquered the prestigious World Boxing Council Diamond Belt, but it took a momumental career best effort to hold back a riptide and defeat an intrepid, ferocious brave as a lion Abner Mares, in a ring war, which is a firm candidate for Fight of the Year!

Whenever two Mexican warriors clash... fever pitch expectation, mustard keen red hot anticipation and electric tension, are chile pepper elements and this one was no exception! Yet...it's sheer intensity proved the exception!

An accidental clash of heads in round three, gashes Abner's right brow, but his corner managed to factor this in, staunching the bleeding, so it didn't significantly hamper him for the rest of an incredible fight.

The crowd roar and rise as one in the final rounds as both tremendous fighters briefly embrace and then straight back to war. Each tosses caution to the wind and slugs toe toe for a seeming eternity.... which must have lasted thirty pulsating seconds in the final coutdown, in truly amazing and electric action, willing on tired, aching muscles for an absolute grandstand finale. What an utterly amazing fight topped off by a thunderous, prolonged and thoroughly deserved

standing ovation!!! Who could have ever thought it would go the distance...but it did. Bile spent and fury sated, Leo calmly goes over to Abner's corner, both somehow find the strength from some reserves of depleted energy resevoirs to hug, grinning almost shyly at the greatness it took two of them to make, as the atmosphere still crackles with the lingering whiff of cordite? The judges´scorecards are: 117-111, 114-114 and 115-113, so Leo wins a majority decision and conquers the WBC Diamond Belt.

By Francisco Posada Toledo

Mexican Francisco "Bandido" Vargas got up off the canvasss and went on to conquerer the World Boxing Council super featherweight championship, defeating Japan's Takashi Miura by TKO in the ninth at the Mandalay Bay Hotel of Las Vegas, Nevada...and what a war it was!

It could have all eneded in the first round as Vargas wobbled Miura with a mighty right hand. Staggered, groggy and badly hurt, Miura showed his class by toughing it out to survive, yet he was lucky the powerdriver struck not that long before the sweet timbre of the bell clanged.

That brutal first stanza had also left its lunar landscape mark on Vargas, with a cut just below his right cheekbone, which widened to a crescent shaped divot, that would have shocked officials at the Royal and Ancient, St Andrews!

Miura tore into Vargas dropping him hard with a huge left hook in the fourth. Vargas, who also collected a cut above his right eyebrow and that eye was starting to close, was under the cosh! Vargas survived a torried eighth. He was upright, uptight and coiled, trying to box, while Miura was crablike and going to the body with success. Battered Vargas, who's known for his grit and resolve, needed a miracle, and he pounced at the start of the ninth to créate one. A wicked combination starting with a huge left uppercut, concluding with a straight right, dropped Miura like a sack of coal.

Miura somehow clambered up, but his legs were gone. All the hugging and clinching in the world were not enough to shake off the effects of the punishment, and when a massive straight right exploded on his jaw, Referee Tony Weeks, instantly moved in to save him, at one minute and thirty one seconds.

No complaints from Miura, who was under shellfire. An absolutely outstanding, outlasting lion hearted victory by Vargas, who's gone "Won" better than five Mexicans before him. Miura who was relatively unmarked in defeat, apart from rosy cheeks, is already hankering after a rematch. With this result "Bandido" stole the night's limelight to become the new WBC world champion improving his undefeated record to 23-0-1, with 17KO´s, while Miura is 29-3-2, with 22 KO´s. A classic of controlled ferocity!

VARGAS TKO'S MIURA AN ABSOLUTE WAR!

In what was a great, fascinating and absorbing fight, Mexican Saul “Canelo” Alvarez became the new WBC middleweight champion defeating Puerto Rican Miguel Angel Cotto by UD, in the main event of a card presented by Golden Boy Promotions along with Roc Nation at the Mandalay Bay Hotel of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Heavier, high impact punching from Canelo won him the fight with scores of 118-110, 119-109 and 117-111.

Canelo used his eight centimeter reach advantage to good effect cutting down the distance. His head movement and left jab are noticeably improved, and his body punching, particularly the left hook, as well as his youth and strength were important factors.

Cotto who was magnificently conditioned, displayed superb defence and defiance, utilizing his left jab to effect, backed up with some rapid fire combinations, yet although stinging, they didn't carry the same pep as Canelo's bludgening crackers.

Canelo started the eighth with a huge left uppercut followed by an even harder straight right, which merely provoked Cotto to return fire toe to toe, with some blistering combinations snapping back Saul's head. Canelo was noticeably tiring from the ninth onwards, while Cotto was still up on his toes and outboxing him in spurts. A big eleventh for Canelo who landed a searing right hook to the ribs and then a hard left uppercut, followed by a left right combintion to the head. Cotto effectively used lateral movement to insure Canelo couldn't follow up, and still appeared as fresh as a Daisy.

Both went for it, thowing bunches of punches and caution to the wind in the twelfth and final round.The heavier punches coming from Canelo, who cut Cotto's left eye, with about two minutes left on the clockAfter an embrace of mututal respect for a true warrior, Canelo then said: “I landed the best punches. I was sure I was winning the fight. The harder blows came from me. I respect Cotto. He is great champ, but this is my era. It's “Canelo Time!"

CANELO, THE NEW WBC MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION

After the unanimous decision was announced, following his dominating performance against a game and very brave Andre Berto, Floyd Mayweather got down on his knees, looked up to Heavens and had a private moment of joy, concluding nineteen years and forty nine fights undefeated, culminating in World Boxing Council Titles in five different categories.

After he'd arisen, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman congratulated Floyd, and strapped on the famous Green and Gold Belt over his shoulder, in the MGM Grand Garden Arena, as the crowd of 13,000 cheered a masterful performance from The Maestro, who brilliantly displayed the art he's perfected of hitting, but largely avoiding being hit.

During the first two rounds, Andre Berto (30-4, 23KO's) held his gloves high and learned first hand, just how difficult it is to land punches on a techninal genius, who also carries the sting of 26 KO victories.

Floyd decided it was time to launch an attack in the third and a single shot big right hurt Andre, who tried to relatiate with a wild attack. There was a collective gasp as Floyd went down, but it was a slip. In the next round Andre again attacked and partically landed a left right to the head. But coming in as he did and as he was obliged to, made him vulnerable to the best counter puncher in the business, and he was badly stung by a lightning whiplash left, which seemed to emerge from Scotch mist.

The fifth saw a lot of mauling and a look of affronted astonishment laced with a liberal wince of pain, as Floyd recoiled from a low blow from Andre, who was briefly chided by Referee Kenny Bayless. Andre's richly deserved reward was a big counter left, which landed flush on his perspiring head. Andre himself was still finding Floyd a rather elusive target.

By the seventh, Floyd was opening up. A laser guided straight right hand snapped back Andre's head and a bigger left hook wobbled him, and more of the same in the eighth. Andre was having some success with left leads, but he kept winding up his right hand, so ever adept and watchful Floyd was able to block and slip this too obvious and basic robotic ploy.In the tenth the needling back chat, reached an unacceptable irritation level, so Referee Kenny Bayless halted the action and spoke to them, ordering both to cut it out! Thoroughly admonished, they grinned and patted each other, and as business resumed Floyd slammed a big left into the side of Andre's head, who duly replied with a decent right of his own.

Floyd moved up a gear in the eleventh with a perfect left right combination, Andre tried to return fire, but Floyd was weaving, ducking and moving, culminating with an Ali shuffle. Oh boy...pretty frustrating for an opponent who was fighting his heart out, but was often clobbering thin air with all his might!

In the twelfth and final round, Floyd bounced off the ropes with a massive right uppercut which landed on the button to stagger Andre, and more rights followed. for the first time in the fight Andre appeared to be in real trouble, but Floyd decided to showboat for the last seconds.

In lopsided victory, Floyd tied the unbeaten 49-0 record of Rocky Marciano, tying Andre Berto in knots, during what he insisted will be his last fight. The scorecards which were were 117-111, 118-110, 120-108, reflected the gulf of masterly technical superiority. Although at thirty eight Floyd is six years older than Andre, who celebrated his birthday last Monday, he finished a lot fresher. Andre had used up an awful lot of energy chasing quick silver Floyd around and around, round after round to get countered cuffed, stung and occasionally stunned.

Floyd insists this was his final fight. Hopefully he can onpass his multi exceptional skills to a new generation of oncoming fighters.

FLOY

D'S

FINA

L HUR

RAH

WBC Cares Chairperson Jill Diamond took a group of WBC champions and other convention attendees on a visit to a Kunming school yesterday. At this morning's general assembly meeting, Jill said, "We had a most beautiful visit yesterday. First, I want to thank the champions that went with us – Raja Amasheh, Badou Jack, Leo Santa Cruz – but mostly the members, who were treated like stars.

"What was so wonderful about this visit – we've been to hospitals and to youth centers, and many of these children will never meet another person from Germany, or Mexico, or Poland, or the United States, and we really are the ambassadors of our countries. So the

next time they see something going on in the world or see something happen in another country, they can say, 'I knew someone from New York, I knew someone from Mexico, and they seemed like very nice people.' So it's really, really important that we see what kind of ambassadors we are."I thank José Sulaiman, and now Mauricio Sulaiman, for continuing this program. We want to make it bigger, we want to make it real, so anyone who is seriously interested in being part of the WBC Cares group, give me your email or come to me before we leave this convention.

"These pictures just show the tip of the beauty of what happened when we

went to the school. We felt welcomed, we felt loved, and hopefully we left them with a great impression of who the World Boxing Council is, and who we are as people.”

The WBC Cares has participated in more than 200 events all around the World.

WBC CARESIN KUNMING,

CHINA

THE WORLD BOXING COUNCIL'S THE WORLD BOXING COUNCIL'S 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION WAS A GREAT SUCCESS WAS A GREAT SUCCESS By John BristerBy John Brister

THE WORLD BOXING COUNCIL'S 53rd ANNUAL CONVENTION WAS A GREAT SUCCESS By John Brister

By Vi

ctor

Cota

The World Boxing Council's 53rd annual

convention closed on November 5 at the InterContinental Hotel. 750 members of the world boxing community were in attendance – 550 who traveled from abroad and 200 from China.

WBC President Mauricio Suliaman opened the morning's general assembly meeting by saying: "I am very proud of the champions that have come here and shared this week with us. They're family men, kind, and we've seen how they are this week with their beautiful wives – Badou Jack, Leo Santa Cruz, Viktor Postol, Gennady Golovkin – and our female champion, Raja Amasheh. I would not like to miss any names, but simply, boxers who are with the WBC are our pride. I'm very proud of you, Badou, and very proud of all of you who have been with us this week. We hope that you carry back the understanding of what the WBC is, what we're made of, what kind of family we are. You go out and represent the WBC in every single day that you go through life. That's one of my major, major satisfactions – to have witnessed the beauty of our current boxers, the way they are in their life.

"To have given Floyd Mayweather the Lifetime Achievement Award and the official farewell to a great career was also a highlight for us because Floyd, without a doubt, has been one of the most loyal and closest fighters to the WBC, and to all of us, in his 17 years as champion.

"The Man of the Year Award to Dr. Armando Ahued was special, as well. Just as an example – every single week, at least two times I've got to call him to ask for urgent attention for somebody. A member of the press in Mexico was walking on the street and he was beaten up so bad that he had a fractured skull. He was at risk of losing an eye, and they performed an urgent surgery. The emergency surgery was very expensive, and they had no means. Within one hour, and ambulance was picking him

up and he was in the operating room. There was a fighter's mother who needed cancer treatment, and there are many, many other examples every single week that Dr. Ahved helps somebody. Any boxer, anyone who is from the boxing community, he helps.

"The Clean Boxing Program will be one of our top priorities. It's going to take time, but we're working on it and it's something that

the WBC holds in great regard. I know that the British Boxing Board of Control have an out of competition system, and this is something that complements the British Boxing Board of Control, because in our meeting, I was surprised at the so many things that federation does throughout the year in complete silence. They should let the world know what their federation does, because they get involved in mental health, they do charity, they do drug testing, they do medical seminars. They are an exemplary federation, and we are going to try to get other federations with the WBC more involved with the British Boxing Board of Control. There was a meeting with the European Boxing Union this morning that was sensational – this has been a very special convention.

"The Code of Ethics for the boxers is going to be something that we also appreciate – the kind of work that the WBC has to do for the boxing world, and not only for the

champions. Any boxer is a role model for kids, for society, and we are going to address domestic violence, we're going to a d d r e s s s o c i a l responsibility, and we have many different programs we're going to show that we all can participate, because we believe that for the major concerns for the world, boxing can be a major way of getting away from the bullying and all that happens in society.

"We're going to talk about the World Amateur Boxing Program. We know there are major concerns with what is happening with AIBA.

"Also, the amount of promoters who have represented their companies at this convention has been a tremendous surprise, with the knowledge that we are having a complete, true meeting of the World Boxing Council because many promoters from around the world are here with us.

"The WBC Challenger – the show is an unbelievable concept that's going to change many things and rekindle opportunities for boxing to be present in more stages.

"The WBC Female Convention we're going to have next month in Tijuana from January 27th through the 30th is going to be great. We're going to have Raja Amasheh defend her title, and many other great surprises at the convention.

"As you know, we voted to modify the purse bid rules, and now 10 percent of the bid will go to the winner of the fight. That will give an incentive to the fighter, not just a set purse. That, of course, is only for mandated bouts that go to purse bid, but hopefully that model can be taken by promoters for the winners of other fights. Boxing is one of the very few sports that do not have incentives for the winner.

"We reached an agreement with Carlos Briman of Mexico. He is the owner of a financial system named 'Value,' and he is a multi-millionaire who is an expert in the financial world. He has been working to put a program together that will be available for any boxer for voluntary savings. Our

intention is to have a program where the boxer can save money and generate big interest without any risk, and that money will not be available to them until five years after they have retired. There is a cycle where the boxer makes a lot of money. When he stops making money, he continues spending the same amount for a time – with an entourage,

the cars, the happy life, girls, drinks. By the time they realize they're not making money, they had spent all their money and they will never make any more money. That's when they suffer that tremendous depression and end up broke, so they come back to fight, they put their health at risk. We need to have some avenues for boxers to find a way that they can save their money, because the "We addressed the PBC, which is a boxing

promotions system in the United States, and have come up with guidelines to keep supporting PBC, a s w e s u p p o r t a n y promoters if it is for the good of boxing.

"And Marina Sheppard with BoxRec and Dean Lohuis will continue to do their work. The Mismatch Prevention System will be one of our top priorities within our affiliated federations and with our affiliated championship committees, and to go down to the national commissions and national championships, because the mismatch, without a doubt, is one of t h e w o r s t , m o s t dangerous happenings in our sport." money they make now has to last them the rest of their lives.

Numerous reports on a wide range of subjects were given by committee chairmen throughout the week, some of which will be detailed in the coming weeks.

WBC Medical Advisory Board Chairman Dr. Paul Wallace of the U.S. gave a report on several of the most important medical aspec t s f o r boxe rs t ha t i nc l uded dehydration and rehydration, mouthpieces, ringside physicians, continous boxing education for every federation, WBC minimum medical standards, women's boxing equipment, medical clearance of the older boxer, and head butts. He also said, "The 1st and 2nd WBC Medical Congresses were the best in the history of the planet," and proposed that a 3rd WBC Medical Congress be held in 2016. The Board of Governors unanimously approved, and the planning will start immediately.

WBC Technical Director Bob Yalen of the U.S. reported on the Gloves Certification Program and hand wraps.

• WBC Female Championships Chairman Malte Muller-Michaelis of Germany reported on the status of female boxing: the WBC has 16 world champions from 10 different countries, and will have had 50 championship fights by the end of the year.

•A video report was shown on the Jose Sulaiman Race held last year in Mexico City, which had 6,500 participants and donated funds to the Autism Foundation. Plans are a l r e a d y underway for next year's race.

• There was a video presentation about the Jose Sulaiman Fund, which raised $1 million in an auction with Hublot Watches. President Sulaiman added, "We have a policy that every fighter who is injured is automatically entered into the fund."

• W B C A n t i - D o p i n g C o n t r o l Supervisor Luis Escalona of the U.S. gave a report on the Clean Boxing Program, which the WBC will begin in conjunction with VADA early next year.

• WBC Ring Officials Chairman Hubert Minn of the U.S. reported on the seminars held for judges, and Bruce McTavish of the Philippines reported on the referees' seminar.

• Deputy Director of the Illinois commission Joel Campuzano of the U.S. gave a report on the amateur boxing program.

• W B C G o v e r n m e n t A f f a i r s Representative Ray Mancera of the U.S. reported on the program seeking a pardon for former heavyweight champion Jack Johnson, "Pardon Jack."

• Office manager Nancy Rodriguez

gave a report on the WBC's new Los Angeles office.

• A v i d e o w a s shown on the "WBC Best of the Year Awards" voting process, which is a v a i l a b l e t o a l l o n WBCBoxing.com.

Champions in attendance at the convention included (in alphabe-tical order) :Julio Cesar Chavez, Jeff Fenech, Gennady Golovkin, Rafael Herrera, Larry Holmes, Evander Holyfield, Badou Jack, Ilunga Makabu, Erik Morales, EddieMustafa Muhammad, Vinny Paz, Viktor Postol, Leo Santa Cruz, Shinsuke Yamanaka, Carlos Zarate, and Xiong Zhao Zhong.

Promoters and fighters' representatives in attendance at the convention included (in alphabetical order) Ulrich Bitner, Dejuan Blake, Christian Cherchi, Greg Cohen, Nicole Duva, Andrey Dyachev, Warren Evison, Gabriel Elorde, Johnny Elorde, Liza Elorde, Viktoria Fedorova, Philippe Fondu, Liu Gang, Sean Gibbons, Jose Gomez, Harry Gorian, Ryata Kato, Joe Koizumi, Reiya Konishi, Irene Kostenko, Jun Kubo, Oleg Ladik, Rouss Laguna, Sampson Lewkowicz, Tom Loeffler, Don Majeski, Yvon Michel, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Malte Muller-Michaelis, Art Monis, Aziz Munir, Ahmed Oner, Shamir Petrosyan, Titipong Pisitwuttinan, Ricardo Rizzo, Ron Rizzo, Joseph Rotonda, Brico Santis, Nisse Sauer land , Va le r i i Shumak, Nar is Singwancha, Shingo Suzuki, Gevorg Tatebosyan, Sergey Tatebosyan, Zika U n i s o v a , R o m a n Va l e s i u k , R i u y a Yamanaka, and Oscar Zardain.

President Sulaiman officially closed the convention by saying, "Very unfortunately, what begins has to end. The 2015 convention is coming to a close, but not without the great satisfaction of all of us bringing in our hearts unforgettable memories and feelings. I have been very moved throughout the week seeing all of our dear friends and all of our dear members come together and work together to continue to make boxing safer for the fighters and to make boxing better.

"I am extremely proud of what the WBC represents. I am extremely proud and thankful of what every single person that belongs to the WBC does throughout the year. We cherish and appreciate all the time, all the effort, all the attention that each one of you take away from your personal life and your family life to support and to bring service to our sport.

"I am extremely grateful to Lui Tao, General Kovid Bhaktibhumi, and Patrick Cusick for making China a reality for this convention, and to the InterContinental Hotel and its manager, Patrick Houghton, who have been unbelievably caring to satisfy the needs of everybody.

"We are officially closing the WBC annual convention in this meeting, and I will make sure we put together a working plan for 2016 to be shared with everybody, and we all, together as a team, will work toward making it a reality.

"I started the convention with a quote by Maximus, who was a gladiator, which said,

'What we do in life goes for an eternity.' And I am sure that what we have done this week and what we w i l l accomp l i sh throughout 2016 and years to come, will mark in a way – even if it's a very small way – the history of our passing through life.

"So I thank you all very much for coming, for participating, for being so special, and having the WBC as a beaut i fu l family.”

The WBC's 54th annual convention will be held in M i a m i , F l o r i d a , i n November, 2016.

1.- When was the first time you put the boxing gloves on?The first time I put boxing world on was back in 2007 after my daughter was born

2.- What are your goals in the sport? My main goal in the sport is to become the undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the world 3.- Name 5 of your favorite boxersJoe Louis, Evander Holyfield, Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, Tommy Hearns

4.- Do you have a ritual or a good luck charm that you use before getting into the ring?The only ritual I can say I do before each fight is pray. I have an individual prayer in which I pray for myself as well as my opponent and I have a team prayer.

5.- Which is your favorite punch? Left hook Right Hand

6.- Against who you would like to fight?Vitali Klitschko

7.- How can you describe yourself inside the ring? I'm a straight out monster in the ring but a very intelligent, smart and patient monster. I wait for it! Wait for it! Then Boooom Goodnight!!

8.- What kind of music do you like?I like all kinds of music, really if it sounds good I'll listen to it

9.- Your favorite meal is… Pizza

10.- If you wouldn’t be a boxer, what would you liked to be?Either a football or basketball player

11.- Do you were afraid of something during your childhood?I hate snakes

12.- Do you have any hobbies?I love motorcycle and tattoos

13.- Favorite color…Red

14.- How boxing has change your life?Boxing have changed my life so much, I'm able to support my family unbelievably, I go where I please and can buy what me or my kids want but all glory belongs to God, without him none of this would be possible.

15. - What does it means to you having conquered the Green and Gold belt?Having the WBC Belt means a lot to me. I represent it very well. I can say my name is with all the other greats that have had this belt so I go in the history book for Eternity .

After conquering the world title defeating Bermane Stiverne on January 17th at the MGM Grand of Las Vegas, Nevada, Deontay Wilder stands as a proud champion of the most prestigious boxing organization, the WBC.

The fighter from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, got into boxing by accident after his daughter was born.At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Wilder conquered the bronze medal in the heavyweight division. It was the only medal that the US delegation won in this discipline.

He is a fighter with a great punching power, debuting as pro on November 15th, 2008 defeating Ethan Cox by KO in the second round.The current WBC heavyweight king has a record of 34 victories with 33 KO´s. And NO defeats!

Knowing aChampionKnowing aChampion

Deontay Wilder

MUHAMMAD ALI

HONORED AT

FORTIETH

ANNIVERSARY

OF THE THRILLA

IN MANILA

Muhammad Ali has been honored in his home town of Louisville, for the epic and titanic third and final encounter with ferocious 'Smokin Joe Frazier,' dubbed The Thrilla in Manila.

At the latest honor offered to the three times heavyweight Champion, he was proclaimed as “The best of all time." Former heavyweight Champions Larry Holmes and George Foreman, two amazing rivals and firm friends came to pay respects and honor The Greatest. Friends, Colleagues and several dignitaries also attended the ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of the great fight between Ali and Frazier in the Philippines. An epic battle that lasted 14 rounds and that was named “Thrilla in Manila”.

Ali obtained his second victory over Frazier when the former world champion was kept in his corner by his trainer Eddie Futch. A terrible disappointment to Joe, who'd given everything, but also a wise decision as both of his eyes were almost swelled shut.

Ali who briefly fainted in the stifling heat, later said he was on the point of quitting himself, describing the ordeal as a near death experience.

The Great champion, aged 73, was at the main table along with his wife, Lonnie. Behind him there were a series of iconic photos of his life and times. His attendance represents his annual visits to his home State of Kentucky.

Ali had a lot of important moments inside and outside the ring during his career, including conquering an Olympic gold medal, as well as struggling against social, sports and humanitarian injustices. Now the circle closes as he's come back home for this special event.

.AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley)

World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman was presented with The Keys to the city of Miami by its Mayor Tomas Regalado, in a brilliant ceremony at City Hall.

Mayor Regalado started this act remembering that in the self same place back on August 20th 2013, he had the privilege of honoring the “Father of Boxing” Don José Sulaimán. This time he had the honor of presenting the Keys to the City to Jose´s Son Maurcio Sulaiman, for his outstanding support encompassing boxing.

“It is an extraordinary privilege for me receiving this great distinction. I have mixed emotions. As Mayor Reglado mentioned, my Desr Father was once here in this place receiving this same honor.

“ I am deeply thankful and grateful to Mayor Tomas Regalado and as the son of Jose Sulaiman I am committed to keep working for benefit of our beloved sport.” Said Mauricio.

Major Regalado Also stressed his desire for Miami to again thrive as a hub of boxing, as was the case some years ago. He even offered his full support for the WBC to celebrate its 2017 Convention of 2017 in beautiful Miami.

Mauricio was accompanied by his son José Sulaiman, ESPN analyst, Fernando Barbosa, Mexican promoter, Pepe Gómez, Bismark Morales, who's a member of the WBC ranking committee, President of the Tijuana Boxing commission, Juan Carlos Pelayo, artistic promoter, Cristian Bedoya, and other personalities.

MAURICIO SULAIMAN IS

PRESENTED WITH THE KEYS

TO THE CITY OF MIAMI

On his trip to Managua, World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman Saldivar, learned much more about the commitment of Nicaraguan President, Daniel Ortega Saavedra in developing boxing.

A thousand young people weekly, are dedicating their efforts to amateur boxing and the results of intense, strategy driven training sessions are being seen each and every time they compete in the ring.

Boxing has become so popular in Nicaragua that virtually every week there are three or four amateur boxing cards.

TV broadcasts one of those events and the viewer figures clearly indicate the considerable interest plus affection that that Nicaraguan people have for boxing. Boxing arenas are also packed with enthusiasts.

Boxing and baseball, are the perpetually popular sports throughout Nicaragua. Fans have always applauded and followed step by step the brilliant careers of boxing legends none better than "The explosive thin man” Alexis Argüello, three times world Champion.

Then there's Rugged Rosendo Alvarez, who shared two tremendous fights with Mexico's Ricardo "Finito" Lopez. And

the controversial charismatic and exceptional, Ricardo Mayorga as well as the WBC undefeated flyweight king, Román “Chocolatito”Gonzalez.

PRESIDENT DANIEL ORTEGA: A GREAT

SUPPORTER OF NICARAGUAN BOXING

World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman threw the first pitch prior to the game between Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals at the Marlins Park in Miami.

This ceremony is a baseball tradition in the US, where guests of honor and distinguished sports folk, have the opportunity of throwing the first pitch of the game, to get the ball rolling.

WBC President, Mauricio Sulaiman Saldivar in the none too distant past used to practice baseball at least twice per week.

His Coach was THE BEST- our Beloved Don Jose Sulaiman, who was the Manager of the team “Vagabunods” in the Lindavista baseball league. So Mauricio developed a powerful pitching arm.

So, when the baseball was back in the palm of his hand, great memories came right back, and he was able to perform a star turn up to honor this wonderful sport.

WBC PRESIDENT

MAURICIO SULAIMAN

PITCHES IN

In Managua City Hall, former and current world Champions United to offer a heartfelt homage to Alexis Argüello, six years after his death.Former world Champions from Mexico Humberto ‘Chiquita’ Gonzalez, Carlos Zarate, Alfonso Zamora and current WBC super flyweight champion, Carlos Cuadras, attended accompanied by WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman. We remember, cherish and honor an all time Great. Alexis was three times world Champion. He was Ring King at featherweight, super featherweight and lightweight.

His impressive style, accuracy, grace and efficiency in the ring, made him a superstar. And he developed most of his career in the US.

Alexis Argüello is the most important sportsman in Nicaragua’s history, and an icon in Latin America. He built a record of 82 victories, 65 KO´s and 8 loses.

In 1978 he conquered the WBC super featherweight championship defeating Alfredo Escalera, in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, in the thirteenth round.

You were a true legend dear Alexis, and we will always remember you, recognizing your greatness both as a man and as a boxer.

Alexis Argüello ( April 19, 1952- July 1, 2009)

THE GREAT ALEXIS ARGÜELLO REMEMBERED IN NICARAGUA

The Nevada state has designated July 30th as “Wayne McCullough´s day ”commemorating the 20th anniversary of Wayne conquering the WBC world championship.

“ I am honored and also because this happened at the city which has adopted me. I'm proud to be recognized for conquering the green and gold belt. I want to thank WBC President, Mauricio Sulaiman, for presenting me with this recognition," McCullough commented.

On July 30th, 1995, Wayne conquered the WBC bantamweight crown defeating Japanese Yasuei Yakushiji, in Nagoya, Japan.

Few people gave him any possibility, but that night Wayne proved to have a great determination, skill and fighting spirit.

McCullough had an amateur career of more than 300 bouts, more than 100 ko´s and only 10 loses; he also conquered a Silver belt at the Olympic games of Barcelona 1992.

During his professional career he built a record of 27 victories with 18 Kos and 7 loses. Wayne was never knocked out and he fought against the cream of the crop including: Johnny Bredahl, José Luis Bueno, Víctor Rabanales, Daniel Zaragoza, Erik Morales, Naseem Hamed, Oscar

Larios and Scott Harrison.

WAYNE MCCULLOUGH DAY

Success and KO “ is the much awaited and eagerly anticipated autobiography that former WBC bantamweight Champion, Carlos Zarate, wrote about his KO studded ring career and the titanic fight he won to defeat alcoholism and addictions.

The man with a winning smile and a gentle manner outside ring hours, was an all time great when it came down to the business of fighting. Ranked all time number one bantamweight alongside Reuben Olivares by Ring Magazine, Carlos' dynamite mighty punching career spanned 70 fights, 66 wins- 63 of them via KO and just four defeats!

This project started some years back, when Carlos suffered a heart, was ordered to bed, had some plenty of time to think and contemplate and this helped him to start this dream There has been triumph and the nadir or near despair, but also the golden

thread of a Champion'ssheer determination to overcome all the odds to triumphantly fight back. And this is some-thing Carlos wants to share with his many fans as well as all peo-ple.

“Writing this book, has been cathartic for me. It made me shiver but also it helped me remember the most beautiful moments of my life aside from my family but also through my beloved sport.

“I so am happy for the results, and I realy left my heart here in every single page. I had the great desire to let you know and understand my history and to help those who are in the horrible grip of addictions.”

The great Champion who took time to

thank all of his Family and his Wife Nellie for helping him win the most important fight of his life.

CARLOS ZARATE PRESENTS HIS AUTOBIOGRAPHY "EXITO Y NOCAUT”

Santiago Tianguistenco in the State of Mexico, commemorated the thirty third anniversary of the death of boxing

superstar Salvador Sanchez with honor, style and pernache.

The beautiful Santa Maria Del Buen Suceso Church, was packed by Salvador's family and friends. It was a huge turnout. A mariachi band played some jaunty and happy tunes there, accompanying a constantly growing procession, to the nearby pine trees lined cemetery leading to Sal's grave, where heartfelt tributes were offered, and wreaths as well as garlands of bright colored flowers festooned.

Then on to the Civic Center where Salvador's Family provided lunch for a multitude. And promising youngsters competed in nine boxing finals.

It was a tribute and salute to Salvador's everlasting memory, as an all time great WBC featherweight Champion and a sports icon. But also brilliant ray of hope and progress towards a bright future for young boxers.

A wonderful day which brought great pride to Salvador's Mother Maria Luisa Narvaez De Sanchez. How She, the Family and this town love him!

CELEBRATION OF A CHAMPION