Michel Soro Receives Requested Rematch with Israil Madrimov
Typically in boxing, an organization will not often grant rematches after a controversial stoppage or decision. When it happens, it is a surprise to all of the boxing community, and it should be applauded. This brings us to the WBA’s junior middleweight top contenders Israil Madrimov (8-0, 5 KO’s) and Michel Soro (35-3-1, 24 KO’s).
In December 2021, Madrimov controversially defeated Soro, winning the opportunity to fight unified champion Jermell Charlo. The fight was entertaining but ended disappointingly due to human error.
Round nine is when everything went sideways. Madrimov landed an excellent right hand on Soro’s chin, and this is where the controversy started. Soro, pinned up against the ropes, was hurt and in survival mode. He continued to take punishment even after the bell.
The referee was so focused on seeing if Soro was okay that he missed hearing the bell signaling the round was over. He allowed Madrimov to land more punches before jumping in to stop the fight, which was technically over. Social media was going crazy, as everyone, including team Soro quickly called for a rematch.
CORRECTING A MISTAKE
Well, it looks like Madrimov will have to put those championship aspirations on the shelf as the WBA has officially announced the rematch will take place. The WBA organization received the evidence sent in by team Soro who sought an immediate rematch on the grounds of an illegal stoppage after the bell.
As explained by the WBA, the board of community under rule C.26, which gives fighters the right to request direct rematches, decided to grant the request allowing both teams 30 days to negotiate before going to a purse bid.
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By: Garrisson Bland
