Crawford Stripped of WBC Title, Sheeraz to Battle Mbilli for Vacant Super-Middleweight Crown

Briton Hamzah Sheeraz is set to contend for the vacant WBC super-middleweight world title after a significant development saw Terence Crawford stripped of the prestigious belt. Millenium TV has learned that the decision stems from Crawford’s alleged failure to pay sanctioning fees, as confirmed by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman.

Crawford had previously secured the title in September, famously ascending three weight classes to defeat Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and achieve undisputed champion status. However, his tenure with the WBC belt has now concluded, paving the way for a new contender.

Sheeraz, a 26-year-old undefeated fighter with a record of 23 wins, will face Canada’s Christian Mbilli for the championship. This will mark Sheeraz’s second world title opportunity, and his first in the super-middleweight division. His opponent, the 30-year-old Mbilli, also boasts an impressive unbeaten record of 29 wins and one draw.

Prior to this announcement, Sheeraz fought WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames last February, resulting in a 12-round draw. He made his move to super-middleweight in July, securing a fifth-round knockout against Edgar Berlanga. Mbilli last competed in September.

While Crawford has been stripped of the WBC title, he still retains the WBA ‘Super’, WBO, and IBF super-middleweight championships. His next career move remains unconfirmed.