Barry McGuigan says “Not So Fast!”
WBA/IBF Super Lightweight champion Josh Taylor (16-0, 12KO) has sent shock waves throughout the boxing world. The champion announced that he had signed a multi-fight deal with Bob Arum’s Top Rank Promotions. However, according to his “former” handlers Cyclone Promotions, they are claiming this deal foul.
Cyclone would release a statement on social media expressing their disappointment and frustration. By their measure, Taylor is still under contract with them.
Barry McGuigan, founder of Cyclone Promotions, would add further comment.
“We are very disappointed to read the news today that Josh Taylor has signed a promotional agreement with another promotional company. Josh Taylor is under an exclusive worldwide promotional contract with Cyclone Promotions.”
This would not be the first time Top Rank has signed a prominent fighter from the fold of another promotional outfit. In 2018, they snagged away current WBC Super Middleweight champion David Benavidez from PBC.
When it comes to boxing, this is a dog-eat-dog and cutthroat business outside of the ring. Managers and promoters are like sharks in the pursuit of signing prime talent.
A top fighter deciding to part ways from McGuigan and Cyclone is something they are unfortunately all too familiar with, as in 2018 they lost a court battle with former super featherweight and featherweight Carl Frampton after he decided to part ways.
So given that backdrop and their contention that Taylor moving on to Top Rank is a breach of contract, could we see a lawsuit coming from Cyclone? And how long could Taylor be idle as a result?
This is a very fluid situation that is far from resolved if Cyclone has any say so. Stay tuned to 3KingsBoxing on what is certainly a developing situation.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
