Segolene Lefebvre Stripped of WBO Title Due to Injury
The junior featherweight division in women’s boxing has lost a champion. Undefeated 29-year-old Segolene “Majestic” Lefebvre (16-0, 1KO) was stripped of the title by the WBO for violations of the organization’s bylaws.
Lefebvre was supposed to defend the title against former IBF light flyweight champion Alondra “Magnifica” Garcia (21-4-1, 1KO) on October 29. However, the French champion took to social media to inform the fans of an injury suffered in training. She even posted a picture of her in the hospital getting ready for surgery.
THE WBO HAD TO FOLLOW THE RULES
The WBO confirmed that team Lefebvre complied with the requests for medical statements by the championship committee. Although the champion’s injury is legitimate, the problem is her inactivity and possible timeframe to return to the ring exceeds the 180-day stipulation.
In a written statement, the WBO acknowledged that they are sorry for this unfortunate incident. They are forced to abide with the bylaws and strip the French champion of the title.
“We must stress that this Committee sympathizes with Ms. Lefebvre’s medical condition, which impairs her ability to proudly defend her WBO female championship within the allowable time frame.”
“Therefore, based on the foregoing facts, supported evidence, and governing regulations this Committee believes that in the balance of the interests involved, it is justified to declare the WBO female junior featherweight championship “Vacant” effective immediately.”
THERE IS ONE SILVER LINING TO THE STORY
In 2021, Lefebvre won the vacant title by unanimous decision over Paulette Valenzuela on November 20. Furthermore, she successfully defended the title against title challenger Melania Sorroche on May 7.
Fans inside the boxing community believe this process is unfair, considering the champion provided all the required documents. Yet, there is one silver lining to the story. The WBO is willing to make Majestic the mandatory challenger upon returning to action.
“Notwithstanding today’s ruling, upon Lefebvre returning to active competition after certified medical clearance, this Committee shall designate her as the mandatory challenger in the WBO female junior featherweight division.”
By: Garrisson Bland
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