Katie Taylor named 'Champion in Recess' by WBC after taking break
The WBC has designated undisputed light-welterweight champion Katie Taylor as 'Champion in Recess' after she announced plans to step away temporarily, paving the way for a new title fight between Chantelle Cameron and Sandy Ryan.
WBC names Katie Taylor 'Champion in Recess' after announcement of break
Undisputed light-welterweight champion Katie Taylor informed the World Boxing Council she will step away from the sport to attend to personal matters and has been granted 'Champion in Recess' status.
The decision frees the regular super-lightweight title for a clash between mandatory challenger Chantelle Cameron and Sandy Ryan. By retaining emeritus status, Taylor, 39, would have the right to challenge the new titleholder upon her return.
WBC confirms next steps
WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán explained: “She let us know she plans to take time away from the ring to address personal matters. The fight she was due to take was against Chantelle Cameron; by naming her Champion in Recess, we can order Sandy Ryan to face Cameron for the vacant super-lightweight belt.”
Future plans uncertain
'Emeritus champion' is an honorary rank the WBC grants to fighters with outstanding careers who pause due to injury, personal reasons or weight-class changes, allowing the division to remain active.
Taylor, who secured a trilogy win over Amanda Serrano in New York on 11 July, has not confirmed her return. She previously said a bout at Dublin's Croke Park would be “the icing on the cake” of her career, although scheduling at the GAA stadium may not permit it before August next year.
Speaking in Belfast, promoter Eddie Hearn predicted Taylor will delay any decision until early next year. “She’s definitely not fighting again this year or early next year,” he said. “She needs time to decide—retiring hastily could mean reconsideration in January.”
Taylor’s break creates opportunities in the super-lightweight division, keeping the title active while preserving her right to reclaim it.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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