Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, Esq. was reelected World Boxing Organization President today, during the sanctioning body’s General Assembly. Voting for the WBO Executive Committee highlighted the first day of the 35th Annual WBO Convention, being held from October 24 to October29 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Paco has been President for 25 years and has been instrumental to the growth of the WBO.
#WBO35Convention ⛳ kicked off the 23rd Annual Golf Tournament at beautiful El Legado Golf Club and Resort of Puerto Rico, located in the city of Guayama!!
CONVENTION AGENDA
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The World Boxing Organization (WBO), chaired by Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, Esq. suspended the 2020 edition of its annual convention due to the current pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus.
The annual convention was scheduled to be held next October in the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The decision was made by the Executive Committee and 78 member countries of the organization. The vote was unanimous. Valcárcel, Esq. indicated that the elections for all the positions of the Executive Committee and of the regional organisms were postponed until the 2021 Convention.
For his part, WBO’s legal adviser, Gustavo Olivieri, Esq. stressed that the organization’s priority is the health of all its members and the general public.
“In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the WBO’s greatest concern is the health and safety of our members, former and current champions, and the boxing community in general. Therefore, in consultation with our WBO Member Commissions around the world and the WBO Executive Committee, it was agreed that the best course of action was to postpone the annual convention for the following year (2021)”, said Olivieri.
“We hope to see and greet all of the WBO family in 2021.”
Tokyo, Japan – The 32nd annual WBO convention officially began at the luxurious Tokyo Dome Hotel with the first day packed with meetings and other activities.
The Executive Meeting took off with the President’s Report, Treasurer’s Report, Championship Committee Report, Grievance Committee Report, and annual presentations given by the regional directors of the WBO Latino, WBO International, WBO Europe, WBO Inter-Continental, WBO Global, WBO Asia Pacific, WBO Africa, WBO China Zone and NABO.
On safety issues, the priority of this convention:
“The doctors in the ring have to be prepared for the possibility of a fighter being seriously injured, including the possibility of brain damage. Sometimes the supervisors don’t know about medical procedures and doctor specialized care for these situations”, WBO President Francisco Valcárcel, Esq, said. “Supervisors should work to enforce our rules. Sometimes the doctor is a general practitioner. Sometimes they don’t know or ask about the distance from the fight venue to the hospital or if the hospital have a neurologist or neurosurgeon available that night. Not everybody can be a supervisor or a doctor in a boxing match.”
“If you’re dealing with boxing, the best doctor to work a fight should be a neurologist or neurosurgeon,” Valcárcel added.
WBO Legal Advisor Andre Horn stated: “It’s clear we are not here to run the show in a boxing event but to enforce the WBO rules. We want to protect not only the WBO fighters but all fighters. We are all brothers.”
At the end of the session, the Japanese press interviewed Valcárcel and asked about a possible bout between Japanese star and Bantamweight World Champion Naoya Inoue and newly crowned WBO Bantamweight World Champion Johnriel Casimero, of the Philippines.
“We have been working on that fight. Inoue got a contract to fight in America with Top Rank. Manny Pacquiao is Casimero’s promoter. He’s very close to WBO too. Before the fight between Tete and Casimero, I talked to Casimero’s team, Frank Warren, Team Tete, Bob Arum and Manny Pacquiao to make the unification fight with Inoue possible early next year. Inoue is in an elite position and needs elite fights. And I can assure you that if something happened during this convention, I can give you the date of the fight this week. Carl Moretti, VP of Top Rank, and Sean Gibbons, representing Casimero’s team are here in Tokyo. For sure they will start a conversation for that fight. It will be a tough fight for both. We are talking about two elite fighters.”
The night concluded with a Welcome Cocktail Party for all members and participants at MLB CAFÉ (Tokyo Dome City).
Photos by Robert Richard / WBO
WBO Annual Convention Report Day 3
At the beginning of the week the now 32nd convention of the World Boxing Organization (WBO) started in Tokyo. An event that brings together promoters, matchmakers and boxers from around the world to discuss various topics. For Erol Ceylan, head of EC Boxing from Hamburg, the event turned out to be very happy right from the beginning. The 47-year-old was honored by WBO President Francisco Valcárcel for his valuable work as a promoter and even received a specially made by the Organization.
The final day of the 32nd annual WBO convention in Tokyo, Japan concluded last night with the event that always has no shortage of drama: the Championship and Ratings Committee meeting. And in boxing’s biggest weight class there was one undeniable fact…the division was in a holding pattern as they waited for this weekend’s fight to conclude between Andy Ruiz and Anthony Joshua. With the winner mandated to fight two separate fighters (Aleksandr Usyk, the WBO #1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger to the belt as well as IBF mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev) and with the #2 ranked heavyweight (Tyson Fury) on a crash course towards a WBC world heavyweight title fight against Deontay Wilder there was no question as to who the big winner would be once the dust settled.
“Joseph Parker remains the only man to beat your champ Andy Ruiz,” David Higgins said to the WBO President and the championship committee. “He’s very grateful to the WBO and would like to challenge for the WBO title should (Tyson) Fury move out. He’d like to move up to #3.”
Higgins, the manager of the former WBO heavyweight champion, was clearly positioning the Kiwi fighter for the most important spot in the rankings that was still in play. What was apparent was that such a move could put Parker in line for a title fight in the next few months if the winner of the Ruiz-Joshua fight elected to give up his WBO belt and defend his belt against the mandatory IBF challenger instead. Such a move would almost certainly lead to an Usyk-Parker fight for the vacant title.
“If the belt becomes vacant he (Parker) would like to raise his hand and fight Usyk of the vacant title.” Higgins added.
There was no question that Parker remains highly regarded by many on the WBO, and it did appear that Joseph Parker was the man who found the last Golden Ticket in his Wonka Bar.
“He has been a great champion and we are very proud of him,” President Valcarcel said of the Kiwi.
In other heavyweight news, the prospect of an interesting Pacific heavyweight clash became a bit closer to reality as undefeated Chinese bomber Zhilei Zhang (21-0, 16 KOs) received a push from promoter Dino Duva after having been dropped from the rankings due to inactivity.
“He lost his rank due to inactivity,” Duva admitted. “(But this was) due to visa issues.” Duva also made it clear that his Chinese fighter would be more than willing to fight New Zealand’s Junior Fa (19-0, 10 KOs) who is currently the #7 ranked heavyweight contender.
Another fighter from the Far East, Japan’s Kyoto Fujimoto (21-1, 13 KOs) also received a push to reenter the world rankings. Shinto Suzuki requested a top ten ranking for the local boxer, who is currently slated to fight undefeated Daniel Dubois on December 21.
In the light heavyweight division, Lee Eaton from MTK Global made a push to see #11 ranked Steven Ward move up the rankings.
At 168 pounds President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel stated that the WBO has given champion Billy Joe Saunders “a lot of leeway” when it came to making his mandatory defense, indicating that Saunders would have to fight a mandatory in his next title fight.
For Brazil’s Patrick Teixeira (31-1, 22 KOs) there is going to be no time to sit on his laurels. After winning the WBO interim 154-pound title on November 30, he now finds himself with a mandatory opponent, one that he will need to make his first defense against.
In a unanimous vote, the WBO voted to name undefeated Argentinian Brian Carlos Castaño (16-0-1, 12 KOs) as the mandatory challenger and ordered the Brazilian champion to start negotiations with Castaño and his team.
In the welterweight division, Lee Eaton made a push for the WBO European champion Michael Mckinnon (the #9 ranked contender) to move into the #6 slot, noting that he did recently defeat the #6 ranked welterweight recently.
In the 140-pound division, Francis Warren made a push for #14 ranked Sam Maxwell (the WBO European champion) while Angelo DeCarlo made a push for the #11 ranked lightweight, Jason Ng to move into the top ten.
At 122-pounds Sean Gibbons made a push for the #10 ranked Mexican Cesar Juarez, who is making a strong push for comeback fighter of the year. Juarez is slated to fight undefeated prospect Angelo Leo (18-0, 8 KOs) on December 28. With Leo ranked #14 in the WBO Gibbons pushed for a top 3 ranking for Juarez should he win.
In the 105-pound division, a push was made for Melvin Jerusalem to move into the top five.
* * *
In other business conducted on the final day, Puerto Rico was selected as the venue for the 2020 WBO convention, with Florida being named the backup.
A busy Day 1 at the 32nd WBO Convention in Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, Japan – The 32nd annual WBO convention officially began yesterday at the luxurious Tokyo Dome Hotel with the first day packed with meetings and other activities.
The Executive Meeting took off with the President’s Report, Treasurer’s Report, Championship Committee Report, Grievance Committee Report, and annual presentations given by the regional directors of the WBO Latino, WBO International, WBO Europe, WBO Inter-Continental, WBO Global, WBO Asia Pacific, WBO Africa, WBO China Zone and NABO.
On safety issues, the priority of this convention:
“The doctors in the ring have to be prepared for the possibility of a fighter being seriously injured, including the possibility of brain damage. Sometimes the supervisors don’t know about medical procedures and doctor specialized care for these situations”, WBO President Francisco Valcárcel, Esq, said. “Supervisors should work to enforce our rules. Sometimes the doctor is a general practitioner. Sometimes they don’t know or ask about the distance from the fight venue to the hospital or if the hospital have a neurologist or neurosurgeon available that night. Not everybody can be a supervisor or a doctor in a boxing match.”
“If you’re dealing with boxing, the best doctor to work a fight should be a neurologist or neurosurgeon,” Valcárcel added.
WBO Legal Advisor Andre Horn stated: “It’s clear we are not here to run the show in a boxing event but to enforce the WBO rules. We want to protect not only the WBO fighters but all fighters. We are all brothers.”
At the end of the session, the Japanese press interviewed Valcárcel and asked about a possible bout between Japanese star and Bantamweight World Champion Naoya Inoue and newly crowned WBO Bantamweight World Champion Johnriel Casimero, of the Philippines.
“We have been working on that fight. Inoue got a contract to fight in America with Top Rank. Manny Pacquiao is Casimero’s promoter. He’s very close to WBO too. Before the fight between Tete and Casimero, I talked to Casimero’s team, Frank Warren, Team Tete, Bob Arum and Manny Pacquiao to make the unification fight with Inoue possible early next year. Inoue is in an elite position and needs elite fights. And I can assure you that if something happened during this convention, I can give you the date of the fight this week. Carl Moretti, VP of Top Rank, and Sean Gibbons, representing Casimero’s team are here in Tokyo. For sure they will start a conversation for that fight. It will be a tough fight for both. We are talking about two elite fighters.”
The night concluded with a Welcome Cocktail Party for all members and participants at MLB CAFÉ (Tokyo Dome City).
Photos by Robert Richard / WBO
The 32nd annual WBO Convention kicked off today (Tuesday, December 3rd) at the Tokyo Dome Hotel in Tokyo, Japan, its first time hosting a convention in the Land of the Rising Sun. And from what Day One showed, it looks like Japan and the WBO are going to score a knockout with this year’s convention. Although day one was focused primarily on the reports from the various regional organizations, there was one undeniable theme from the WBO this year: that of the need and importance of safety in boxing. And there was no question after day one that the WBO was going to leave no stone unturned in it’s quest to make boxing a safer sport for its fighters.
The event kicked off just after 8 AM with an introduction of the committee and the members from around the world, as well as distinguished representatives from the WBA, the Japan Boxing Commission, and the NABF.
From there the various regional vice presidents and committee chair members gave their annual reports, and what would prove to be a reoccurring theme: 2019 proved to be a banner year for the WBO.
The first report was conducted by attorney and vice chairman of the WBO Championship Committee Enrique Mendoza. Mendoza gave a summary of the state of the WBO world title and the activity of the coveted belt, noting that there were 68 world title fights held since the last convention with 44 male title fights and 24 female title fights. The United States was host to the vast majority of those fights with 29 men’s world title fights being held in the USA and 13 female world title fights being held in the United States. California was the most notable location for world title fights with the WBO, with 9 out of the 44 men’s championship fights being hosted in California. Top Rank Promotions was the most prolific promoter of WBO world title fights as well, with 9 WBO world title fights promoted by them.
The next report on the Ratings Committee came from attorney Edgardo Lopez Sasso, chairman of the Ratings Committee. Sasso gave a brief presentation that highlighted many of the factors that go into the selection process of a WBO contender, including a “positive amateur record with special emphasis on medals obtained in international and Olympic tournaments” as well as a “positive professional record with special emphasis on boxers recent activity.” But he also highlighted many of the other factors that the WBO prizes in fighters such as “positive TV exposure”, good relationship with the community, and for the fighter to have “no drug-related problems.”
From there one of boxing’s most notable regional titles, the NABO, was highlighted with a report on that organization by Vice President Richard De Cuir. De Cuir noted that since the last convention there have been 25 NABO title fights, with Top Rank again taking the lead as the most prolific promoter of NABO title fights.
“The are stupendous,” De Cuir added of the success of Top Rank in promoting fights involving NABO champions.
The success of the NABO led to an interesting proposal by De Cuir as he suggested bringing in Craig Hubble as co-chair of the NABO, a proposal that was warmly embraced by other members.
After De Cuir’s report on the NABO, WBO Inter-Continental Chairperson Beate Poeske of Germany gave her report on that organization. With 30 title fights, including four in November of 2019, there was little question that the WBO Inter-Continental was also proving to be a knockout for the WBO.
From there the always passionate Jorge Molina gave his report on the WBO Latino, and once again Molina showed why success in the WBO Latino is one of the best indicators of future world title success. Since the last convention, Molina was proud to announce that there had been 12 WBO Latino champions who fought for a world title, with two winning the world title belt (including Brazil’s Teixeira, who won the junior middleweight belt just three days before the start of the convention.
The next region to present a report was WBO Europe, which has been capably handled by former world champion Istvan “Koko” Kovacs. Kovacs and WBO Europe have remained one of the most prolific regional titles in the sport and 2019 saw a continuation of that dominance with 46 WBO European title fights since the last convention. In 2019 also Europe has hosted 87 WBO world and regional title fights, a steady upward trend that has seen the number of fights continue to rise since 2016 (when Europe hosted 65 title fights). And with a vast majority of WBO European champions being undefeated, there is little question that there are some legitimate prospects and contenders who are honing their skills in WBO Europe. Since it’s inception WBO Europe has handled over 220 title fights.
Following Kovacs’s presentation, a brief video on the WBO Kids Drug Free Program was played, as well as a touching tribute to popular judge Harold Lederman, who passed away on May 11, 2019. A third video, which was a recap of the 2018 convention in Panama, followed before the break.
After the break, a report from Asia/Pacific, Oriental, Africa, and China Vice President Leon Panoncillo commenced and Panoncillo again proved to be boxing’s own Cal Ripken Jr. Panoncillo has proved to be an absolute workhorse, sanctioning fights across the globe, from Accra to Osaka. In his role as head of the WBO Asia Pacific he oversaw 20 title fights. The WBO Asia Pacific Youth title was involved in four fights and there were an additional four WBO Asia Pacific female fights. For the WBO International Panoncillo oversaw an impressive 35 total championship fights, making it one of the most successful and profitable belts in the WBO lineup. The WBO Oriental belt was fought for 20 times since the last convention, while the WBO Africa belt was involved in 20 additional fights. Rounding off Panoncillo’s report were statistics on the WBO Africa Youth belt, which was contested in two bouts the WBO China National title (which was involved in one fight) and the WBO Greater China, which was involved in two title fights.
The following report came from an American football loving Australian and longtime WBO member Danny Leigh. Leigh took over as head of the newly created WBO Global in 2019 and if there were a comparison to American football, Leigh and the WBO Global have emerged as boxing’s version of Patrick Mahomes. One day everyone woke up and noticed that there was a new powerhouse in the sport that seemed to come out of nowhere. The WBO Global has seen 26 fights in its first year.
The next report discussed the status of the WBO brand and President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel’s desire to see a uniformed logo on all of the WBO belts.
The next discussion proved to be one of the most informative as WBO First Vice President John Duggan spoke at length about the issue of boxing safety as renewed calls for the abolition of boxing have resurfaced after the death of several fighters in 2019. A recent medical journal (the Annals of Neurology) published a piece calling for the total ban on boxing, and Duggan noted that this is not an unusual position among various medical associations. As a result, he cited a fascinating article written by a Dr. Nitin Sethi, who recognized that boxing can never be made completely safe, but could be made safer. One of the most compelling arguments was the need to change the culture of boxing, citing one of boxing’s most historic moments: the infamous no mas fight. Sethi noted that there should be no shame in saying no mas and that the sport needs to revisit the position that a fighter never quits. Needless to say, it was a refreshing and compelling argument to hear at a sanctioning organization conference that the sport itself needs to reevaluate its culture and values…and for boxing to change the narrative and recognize that a fighter doesn’t have to go out on his shield in a fight he is not going to win.
After lunch, a short video followed on the state of women’s boxing before attorney Fernando Gierbolini gave a presentation on the WBO Grievance Committee. Starting off on a reiteration of the process, Gierbolini then discussed the three cases the committee handled in 2018-2019. This included the recent appeal filed by Krzysztof Glowacki, who lost in controversial fashion to WBO cruiserweight champion Mairis Briedis back in June of 2019. Briedis scored a controversial 3rd round stoppage in a fight that was mired in controversy. This prompted the WBO Championship Committee to state that they although they lacked jurisdiction to challenge the result that Breidis would have to defend his title against Glowacki after he completed the WBSS final. However, the Grievance Committee, by a 2-1 vote, overruled the Championship Committee and ordered an immediate rematch, which in turn prompted Briedis to vacate the belt. It was a moment that Gierbolini was able to cite as proof of the independence of the Grievance Committee when hearing appeals of the Championship Committee rulings.
Attorney Andrew Horn spoke about the legal history of the WBO, and discussed the litigation that followed the Michael Watson-Chris Eubank fight and how that led to a landmark case on the safety standards that must be in place for each fight. From there John Duggan spoke to the members on the new pamphlets that were prepared for WBO supervisors, while also reiterating the standards that the WBO expects of its supervisors.
“Supervisors should be completely neutral,” President Valcarcel added during a discussion, “I hate when you see supervisors taking pictures with the fighter and posting it on…Instagram.”
Duggan’s summary covered everything from the prohibition on asking for tickets from the promoter to what the dress code is for supervisors in WBO world title fights and regional title fights. Upon completion of his report, another video on the WBO Kids Drug Free was shown before the members went into recess for the day. Day two will see the seminars for judges and referees as well as the executive session, which will all take place at the Tokyo Dome Hotel.
By David Finger
Fightnews.com
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) will hold its thirty-second annual convention in the city of Tokyo, Japan from December 2 to 5, 2019 at the Tokyo Dome Hotel.
WBO President Francisco Valcarcel Mulero, Esq, stated:
“The WBO has been in Japan for about 7 years. We have Tomoki Kameda, who was crowned the first WBO World champion in 2013. We are doing great in Japan and as a tribute to Japan, we decided to come here to have a great convention where will discuss boxers’ safety as the main issue.”
“We have been collecting data from different sources. We want to establish a research program, perhaps donating funds to a Med School so that they can work on the issue from a scientific point of view and recommend to us the steps one should follow, the protocol needed to make boxing a safer sport. We have other issues concerning safety, like the referees have to be better prepared in case of any emergency. We will work on seminars with the officials in this matter. We need better judging, better doctors, ringside physicians. We have to train the supervisors, the local commissions. We will touch all these issues during the convention.”
“Japan is a boxing nation, great fighters, great history in the sport. Everybody recognize Japan as a main point of boxing for the sports in all Asia. They have champions like Naoya Inoue, Kosei Tanaka, Kasumi Saeki, Kazuto Ioka, Miyo Yoshida, Tenkai Tsunami, Mika Iwakawa, Ryota Murata.”
“Having our convention here in Japan allows the participation of more fighters from Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Korea, China, among others, and give them the opportunity to fight for WBO titles.”
The convention will be broadcast live on the official WBO Facebook page www.facebook.com/WorldBoxingOrg
The agenda of the convention is available at the following link: www.wboboxing.com/news/wbo-news/wbo-tokyo-convention-2019-agenda/
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) will hold its thirty-second annual convention in the city of Tokyo, Japan, from December 2 to 5, 2019.
As every year, the presence of world sport legends, world champions and former champions, world ranked contenders, prospects, trainers, managers, promoters, officers, as well as figures from political, social and cultural circles are expected.
The convention will also include judge and referee seminars, committee reports, and an awards gala. Various topics will be discussed, many related to fighter safety, global regulations, and classifications, among other topics.
The convention will be broadcast live on the official WBO Facebook page www.facebook.com/WorldBoxingOrg
The agenda of the convention is available at the following link: www.wboboxing.com/news/wbo-news/wbo-tokyo-convention-2019-agenda/
WBO ‘Champions Tournament’ on October 5 @ San Juan, Puerto Rico, as prelude to ‘WBO 32nd Convention’ @ Tokyo, Japan later in December
Boxing event on Saturday October 5 when Miguel Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment present with DIRECTV the special edition of the “WBO: Champions Tournament” in a great event that will serve as a prelude to the 32nd convention to be held in Tokyo, Japan later in December 2019. ( Convention Information )
Top prospect Danielito Zorrilla will headline to go for his first title against the dangerous Mexican Jesus Pérez (23-2 with 18 KO’s) for the Interim WBO NABO Jr. Welterweight.
Zorrilla vs. Perez will be the main event of the successful series DIRECTV Boxing Nights and will be live from the Pedrin Zorrilla Coliseum in San Juan. The event will go exclusively to all DIRECTV customers in Puerto Rico through OnDIRECTV, channel 161.
Zorrilla (12-0, 10 KOs) comes from a tremendous KO victory over the previously undefeated Juan Carlos Cordines (14-1, 9KOs) in last August 21 at San Juan.
This super card will also feature a second title brawl when Nicaraguan Carlos ‘El Chocorroncito’ Buitrago (31-5-1 with 17 KO’s) faces Israel Vázquez (10-3-1 with 7 KO’s) for the vacant Latino championship of WBO at 108 pounds.
Buitrago is a veteran who has four world championship fights in his resume and comes from a very close setback against world class contender McWilliams Arroyo during his 112-pound experiment last June.
In addition, the event will include the promising Juan Carlos ‘El Indio’ Camacho (11-1 with 6 KO’s) in duel with the Argentine Lucas Fernández (12-2-1 with 9 KO’s), which is scheduled to a maximum of 8 rounds at 115 pounds and that will serve as an opening bout for the exclusive transmission of the event.
“We are very excited about this great event dedicated to the fans and that serves as a prelude to the 32nd convention of the WBO in December in Tokyo, Japan is a great initiative of Paco and the WBO for boxing, the fans are going to enjoy we are honored to be part of this great tournament,” said Héctor Soto, vice president of Miguel Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment.
“The WBO: Champions Tournament is an excellent opportunity for quality and rising fighters to face each other,” said Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcarcel, the president of the World Boxing Organization.
“This is the first test for Danielito Zorrilla, who is probably one of the best three prospects coming out from Puerto Rico. And starting with this kind of fight gives brightness to the tournament,” said Valcarcel.
“Danielito Zorrilla goes to a great test against Jesus Pérez. He is a young tough Mexican this fight promises fireworks, and even more is for NABO interim championship of the WBO in the beginning of this exciting champion’s tournament, this is great for boxing!. In addition, the clash of Buitrago vs. Israel Vazquez promises great action clash and, as if that were not enough, we will have the fight of “Indio” Camacho vs. Lucas Fernández, who also promises a lot of fist flying around. On October 5 at the Coliseíto Pedrín Zorrilla will host a great night with the kind of competitive fights that the fan can’t miss”, said promoter Miguel Cotto.
Tickets will go on sale on Monday September 9 at 10:00am they have a price of $25 General Entrance. $30 Ring Side and $35 VIP tables. They will be available at TICKET PLUS calling at (787)808-5000 or visiting www.ticketpluspr.com
PANAMA CITY – The 31st WBO Annual Convention formally opens here Tuesday morning at the iconic Hotel El Panama & Convention Center located in Panama’s downtown and financial district with WBO president Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcarcel presiding.
Participants squeezed in to the jampacked Salon Topacio during the morning’s general assembly with than 300 delegates from all the world are expected to attend throughout the week’s activities.
Below are the summary of the day’s proceedings:
• WBO president Valcarcel requested to do his report later in the afternoon or Wednesday morning after other committee members reports. He then requested WBO treasurer Adolfo Flores Munge to proceed with his report
• WBO treasurer Adolfo Flores Munge emphasized the strength of WBO’s financial condition with $1.7 million dollars cash on hand to comfortably sustain the organization’s operations; Flores also revealed that a 200,000 dollars fund has been reserved for litigation purposes. Legal adviser Andrew Horn commented more on the fund and emphasized that the WBO hasn’t lost a legal case in the last 25 years.
• WBO vice-president for Latin America Jorge Molina then made his report highlighting the increase of the number of WBO Latino title fights in the past year
• Association of Boxing Commission’s (ABC) Sean Wheelock spoke briefly about the rule of the commission and invite participants to attend the ABC seminar and certification
• Video presentation / tribute to the deceased former WBO president Ramon Pina Acevedo, a lawyer and political figure of the Dominican Republic, who died at age 96 last February.
• WBO Europe vice-president made his report for the past year highlighting the continued growth of the WBO in that part of the world
• Japanese boxing journalist and matchmaker Joe Koizumi introduced to the assembly WBO junior flyweight champion Kosei Tanaka who will be recognized by the WBO for his achievement as a WBO three division world champion joining an exclusive group that includes Oscar de la Hoya, Miguel Cotto and Terence Crawford.
• WBO vice-president for North America Richard De Cuir was next to report and first talked about the change of rule by ABC regarding the weight gain limit on fight day for championship fights that could potentially affect world title fights going forward.
• Paco Valcarcel adjourned the meeting for lunch break and reminded the participants for the evening’s scheduled tour of the Panama Canal.
WBO opens, Executive Committee members (L-R): Officials Chairman Michael Pernick, 2nd VP Erno Labega, 3rd VP Geno Rodriguez, Founder/Championship Committee Chairman Luis Batista Salas, President Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcarcel, 1st VP John Duggan, Legal Adviser Andrew Horn and NABO/WBO-Intl Executive Director Diana Melendez.
This year’s convention improved on the optics with large photo displays at the hotel lobby of important fights and a parade of portrait photos of the current WBO champions decorating the alley going to the conference rooms.
In the afternoon session, WBO Grievance Committee lawyer Fernando Gierbolini discussed about the role of the committee in regards to cases within the WBO.
Next up VP Asia-Pacific, China and Africa head Leon Panoncillo Jr did his report for the past year with a great turn around in Africa’s number of regional fights and sanction fees. Panoncillo reported a total revenue of $278,994.33 for the year, a considerable increase from the previous year’s revenue of $190,346.61.
The next discussion was about the proposed Trans-Oceanic regional belt that will cover Australia, New Zealand, Russia and Europe proposed by Executive member Danny Leigh. The discussion consumed the remaining time of the afternoon as officials weighed in the pros and cons of having a new belt and the appropriate name of the belt. Representatives from Europe headed by Koko Kovacs voiced out their reservations about the new title while Leigh and president Valcarcel pushed the need to have another belt for the up-and-comers for the region. With the issue unresolved, championship committee chairman Luis Batista Salas moved to adjourn the proceedings and suggested for the members of the committee involved to continue to discuss the issue and settle it out during the next meeting.
Manos de Piedra Roberto Duran (R) attends the convention.
Japan’s Joe Koizumi introduces WBO world champion Kosei Tanaka.
Delegates from Asia was headed by Leon Panoncillo Jr, WBO vice-president for Asia-Pacific.
Other delegates coming from Asia include Games & Amusement Board of the Philippines chairman Abraham Mitra, Japan JBC inspector general and WBO executive committee member Tsuyoshi YasuKochi and China’s Professional Boxing Commission’s Samson Iu; other Asian delegates who have arrived so far were: from the Philippines judge/referee Danrex Tapdasan, judge Edward Ligas, promoter Kenneth Rontal with his lawyer wife Amabelle; from Japan: Journalist and matchmaker Joe Koizumi, former world champion and now boxing judge Tetsuya Iida and world champion Kosei Tanaka; and from China, matchmaker Aku Zhang.
Corría el día 4 de septiembre del año 2000 en Manchester, Inglaterra, la mirada de los panameños estaban puestas en el televisor, pues desde el viejo continente estaba por escribirse una noche gloriosa en el Wythenshawe Forum.
Ese día, el panameño Mauricio ‘El Ñañara’ Martínez se levantó de las cenizas para hacer historia en el boxeo profesional al consagrarse campeón mundial de peso Gallo de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB), siendo el primer canalero en colgarse la faja del organismo presidido por Francisco Valcárcel.
Fue por eso que en el primer día del arranque de la agenda de labores de la 31 Convención Anual de la OMB, llevada a cabo en el salón del Hotel Panamá, se celebró el triunfo del panameño ya retirado y se le hizo entrega de un cinturón por la gesta lograda en el año 2000.
Luis Batista Salas y Francisco Valcárcel le hicieron la entrega de la correa, previo anuncio de la presencia del ex pugilista que el 4 de septiembre venciera en cinco asaltos Lester Fuentes en la disputa del cinto Gallo que se encontraba vacante.
La pelea en sí estaba cargada hacia el lado del nicaragüense, quien en el primer asalto mandó dos veces a la lona al panameño, y luego la pelea se estaba emparejando en los siguientes dos asaltos, pero en el cuarto volvió a caer bajo los puños de fuentes que inclusive su esquina quería detener la contienda.
‘Ñañara’ les hizo la seña de que no la detuvieran, la pelea siguió y casi al terminar el quinto round se dio el desenlace cuando Martínez con una combinación mandó a las cuerdas a Fuentes, que recibipo un tremendo cruzado a la quijada, cayendo desmadejado al ring para ya no levantarse.
Ahí terminó la batalla y ‘El Ñañara’ se coronó campeón mundial Gallo de la OMB, abriendo el camino a otros panameños para alcanzar la gloria.
ALL WBO OFFICIALS
FROM: MICHAEL PERNICK
WBO CHAIRMAN OF OFFICIALS
DATE: OCTOBER 3, 2018
RE: ABC SEMINAR
Once again we are excited to offer our members the opportunity for ABC training for referees, judges, and the certification test on Wednesday morning October 31, 2018 at our annual convention, and encourage all of our members to get this certification!
In addition we will have an additional WBO session for our judges starting at 2pm-5pm, which we expect all of our member judges to attend. This session will include group participation, exchange of ideas, and experiences. We also are excited to announce some new and exciting programs that we will be offering to our members!
I am very excited, and looking forward to seeing you in Panama!
(versión español abajo )
“To all WBO officials:
Once again, we are excited to offer our members the opportunity for ABC training for referees, judges, and the certification test on Wednesday morning, October 31 2018 at our annual convention, and we encourage all of our members to get this certification!
In addition, we will have an additional WBO session for our judges starting at 2pm thu 5pm, which we expect all of our member judges to attend. This session will include group participation, exchange of ideas, and experiences. We also are excited to announce some new and exciting programs that we will be offering to our members!.
I am very excited, and looking forward to seeing you in Panama!”
Michael Pernick
WBO Chairman of Officials
About The Convention:
The historic and beautiful Panama City will be hosting the 31st edition of the WBO Convention.
Panama is home to many great boxers and world champions, the people love boxing, and this, in addition to its beauty, historic locations, rich culture and great nightlife make it an ideal destination for the World Boxing Organization’s annual gathering.
This event has the purpose of bringing together the boxing family to learn more about this wonderful sport and our organization, it is also a great opportunity to share and network and have fun.
The convention this year will be held from October 29 through November 2, 2018 at the Hotel El Panama Convention Center & Casino.
Activities Itinerary:
Monday, October 29: Golf Tournament
Tuesday, October 30: WBO Assembly 8 a.m. – noon and 1 p.m. through 5 p.m.
Wednesday, October 31: Judges and Referee Seminar from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m.
Judge seminar will be hosted by veteran judge Duane Ford, and Referee Seminar by Jack Reiss and Sean Wheelock. The seminars, which will be carried out under the ABC guidelines, will cover different topics, such as refereeing, judging, rules, and ethics with the purpose of giving ring officials the necessary knowledge, confidence and experience to execute good judgement of a boxing match.
Thursday, November 1: Championships and Rankings Assembly starting at 8 a.m. / Gala Dinner
To participate and make your reservations fill in the registration form (Click Here), in order to get the special group rate, register before September 30th
Click here to make your hotel reservation
Versión español:
“A todos los oficiales de la OMB:
Una vez más, estamos entusiasmados de ofrecer a nuestros miembros la oportunidad de capacitarse por la ABC para árbitros, jueces y la prueba de certificación el miércoles, 31 de octubre de 2018 en nuestra convención anual, ¡y alentamos a todos nuestros miembros a obtener esta certificación!.
Además, tendremos una sesión adicional de la OMB para nuestros jueces a partir de las 2 p.m. a 5 p.m., a la que esperamos que asistan todos nuestros miembros jueces. Esta sesión incluirá la participación grupal, el intercambio de ideas y experiencias. ¡También nos complace anunciar algunos programas nuevos y emocionantes que ofreceremos a nuestros miembros!.
¡Estoy muy emocionado y con ganas de verlos en Panamá!”.
Michael Pernick
Presidente de Oficiales de la OMB
Acerca de la Convención:
La histórica y hermosa Ciudad de Panamá será el escenario de la 31era edición de la Convención de la OMB.
Panamá es el hogar de muchos grandes boxeadores y campeones mundiales, es un pueblo que ama el boxeo, y esto, además de su belleza, locaciones históricas, rica cultura, divertida vida nocturna, lo hacen el sitio ideal para llevar a cabo la convención anual de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo.
Este evento se realiza cada año con el propósito de reunir a la familia del boxeo para aprender más sobre este maravilloso deporte y nuestra organización, es además una excelente oportunidad para compartir y hacer contactos y por supuesto divertirnos.
Este año la convención se llevará a cabo del 29 de octubre al 2 de noviembre 2018 en el Hotel El Panama, Centro de Convenciones y Casino.
Programa de Actividades:
Lunes, 29 de Octubre: Torneo de Golf
Martes, 30 de Octubre: Asamblea General OMB 8 a.m. a 12 M.D. y 1 p.m. a 5 p.m.
Miércoles, 31 de Octubre: Seminario de Jueces y Referís de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.
El veterano juez Duane Ford estará a cargo del seminario de jueces y el seminario de árbitros, será dirigido por el árbitro Jack Reiss y Sean Wheelock. Los seminarios, que se llevarán a cabo bajo las directrices de la ABC, cubrirán diferentes temas, como arbitraje, evaluación, reglas y ética con el propósito de darle a los árbitros el conocimiento, la confianza y la experiencia necesaria para ejecutar el buen juicio de un combate de boxeo profesional.
Jueves, 1 de Noviembre: Asamblea de Campeonatos y Rankings inicia a las 8 a.m. / Cena de Gala
Para participar y hacer sus reservaciones deben llenar el formulario de registro (Clic aquí), recuerde que para obtener la tarifa especial de grupo su registro debe realizarse antes del 30 de septiembre.
The historic and beautiful Panama City will be hosting the 31st edition of the WBO Convention.
Panama is home to many great boxers and world champions, the people love boxing, and this, in addition to its beauty, historic locations, rich culture and great nightlife make it an ideal destination for the World Boxing Organization’s annual gathering.
This event has the purpose of bringing together the boxing family to learn more about this wonderful sport and our organization, it is also a great opportunity to share and network and have fun.
The convention this year will be held from October 29 through November 2, 2018 at the Hotel El Panama Convention Center & Casino.
Update: Judge seminar will be hosted by veteran judge Duane Ford, and Referee Seminar by Jack Reiss and Sean Wheelock. The seminars, which will be carried out under the ABC guidelines, will cover different topics, such as refereeing, judging, rules, and ethics with the purpose of giving ring officials the necessary knowledge, confidence and experience to execute good judgement of a boxing match.
Activities Itinerary:
Monday, October 29: Golf Tournament
Tuesday, October 30: WBO Assembly 8 a.m. – noon and 1 p.m. through 5 p.m.
Wednesday, October 31: Judges and Referee Seminar from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m.
Thursday, November 1: Championships and Rankings Assembly starting at 8 a.m. / Gala Dinner
To participate and make your reservations fill in the registration form (Click Here), in order to get the special group rate, register before September 30th
Click here to make your hotel reservation
For more information, please contact Michael Pernick ( WBO CHAIRMAN OFFICIALS ) at drsnorkle1@gmail.com
(Para Español desplazarse hacia abajo en el artículo)
Have you saved the date and start making arrangements to attend this year’s WBO’s Congress? It may seem like it’s still a long time away, but no, time flies and we need to make sure we are all on the same boat, or the same cruise ship for that matter.
As you’ve already been informed, this year the WBO Congress will take us on a cruise, leaving from Miami, Florida October 23 at 5 p.m. We will be holding our meetings as we navigate through the Caribbean, tough work, but someone has to do it; we will be making a stop in the beautiful island of Cuba, an island with rich pugilistic tradition and home to many boxing stars. Of course, it is not all about work, there is time for fun too, as the cruise takes us to visit the breathtaking Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic private island part of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas… the only risk here is arriving back in Miami October 27th with less people aboard.
This unique and wonderful experience is just seven months away, but your confirmation and reservations need to be ready by August 4, which gives you 4 months to get your arrangements in place. Prepare for this just like a boxer prepares for a fight, with time and diligence.
Take into consideration that your passport needs to be up to date, with the proper U.S. visa if required, make sure to check the expiration date on your travel document. Another important fact to consider is that to enter Cuba all foreigners need to have a tourist card (Visa or Rosada), which needs to be obtained directly by you in your country of origin, or Norwegian cruise line can help you process it for a $75.00 fee. This must be done with enough time in order to avoid unexpected problems or delays, keep in mind that anyone that doesn’t have the Cuban transit card will NOT be allowed to board the vessel.
Don’t miss the boat, make sure you have all your documents and reservations in order and sail with the WBO.
For information on accommodations and costs please Contact Us.
Español:
¿Ha guardado ya la fecha e iniciado con los arreglos para asistir al congreso de la OMB este año? Puede parecer que aún falta mucho tiempo, pero no, el tiempo vuelo, y queremos asegurarnos que vamos a estar en el mismo barco, o el mismo crucero en este caso.
Como ya se les ha informado anteriormente, el Congreso de la OMB de este año nos llevará de crucero, saliendo de Miami, Florida, el 23 de Octubre a las 5 p.m. Estaremos teniendo nuestras reuniones mientras navegamos por el mar Caribe, es un trabajo duro, pero alguien tiene que hacerlo; haremos nuestra primera parada en la hermosa isla de Cuba, un país con una gran tradición pugilística y el hogar de muchas estrellas del boxeo. Por supuesto, no todo es trabajo, tendremos tiempo para un poco de diversión cuando el crucero nos lleve por la impresionane Great Strirrup Cay (Gran Cayo Strirrup), una paradisiaca isla que es parte de las Islas Berry en las Bahamas, el único riesgo que correremos aquí es el volver a Miami el 27 de Octubre con menos personas abordo.
Esta experiencia única y maravillosa la viviermos en tan solo 7 meses, pero las reservaciones y confirmaciones deben estar listas para el 4 de Agosto a más tardar, lo que quiere decier que hay apenas 4 meses para hacer los arreglos necesarios. Prepárese para este evento como un boxeador se prepara para su pelea, con tiempo y de forma diligente.
Tome en consideración que su documento de viaje o pasaporte debe estar al día, con la debida visa americana si así lo requiere, asegúrese de revisar la fecha de expiración de su pasaporte. Otro importante aspecto a tomar en cuenta es que para el ingreso a Cuba todo extranjero debe portar una tarjeta de turista (conocida también como Visa o Rosada), esta debe tramitarse directamente en su país de origen, o el crucero Norwegian la puede tramitar por usted por un costo adicional de $75.00. Este trámite debe ser realizadoo con suficiente tiempo para evitar problemas o retrasos, tenga en cuenta que la persona que no tenga la tarjeta de turista Cubana NO podrá abordar el crucero.
¡Que no lo deje el bote! asegúrese de tener todos sus documentos y reservaciones en orden y navegue con la OMB este mes de Octubre!
Para información adicional o consultas sobre el crucero contactenos.
WBO Congress 2017
SAN JUAN, PR (09/26/16)- Preparados para celebrar una semana de puro boxeo del 17 al 21 de octubre en el Hotel Caribe Hilton de San Juan, Puerto Rico, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB), presidida por el Lcdo. Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, hizo el anuncio oficial de lo que será la cartelera ‘Noche de Campeones DIRECTV’, la cual se celebrará el martes, 18 de octubre en el mencionado hotel, esto como parte de la Vigésimo Novena Convención Anual de la OMB.
“Nosotros en la OMB llevamos nuestras convenciones por todo el mundo, pero en esta ocasión decidimos celebrarla en Puerto Rico y traer a todas estas personas de sobre 130 países a disfrutar de nuestra Isla”, indicó el Presidente Fundador y actual Presidente del Comité de Campeonatos Mundiales de la OMB, Lcdo. Luis Batista Salas. “Este es un organismo mundial que sirve al boxeo en todas las esquinas del mundo, siendo la única organización de deporte mundial que tiene su base en Puerto Rico. De esa manera debemos sentirnos orgullosos de tener al principal organismo de boxeo a nivel mundial en Puerto Rico, donde sin duda el boxeo es el deporte rey”.
La Vigésimo Novena Convención Anual de la OMB, presentará como uno de sus platos fuertes la cartelera ‘Noche de Campeones DIRECTV’, la cual contará con un total de seis combates, donde estarán en juego tres correas del organismo.
“Gracias a Javier Bustillo, promotor del evento, y a DIRECTV por unir esfuerzos para que esta cartelera se pueda celebrar en la Convención el día 18 de octubre”, manifestó el Presidente de la OMB, Lcdo. Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel. “Esta será una gran convención, que iniciará el lunes, 17, con el tradicional torneo de golf en el Legado en Guayama, donde Miguel Cotto y Oscar De la Hoya ya confirmaron que estarán jugando con nosotros. El martes, 18, estaremos entregando el campeonato a Saúl ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, quien acaba de coronarse en Dallas ante más de 52,000 fanáticos, esto en la sesión inaugural luego de las elecciones. Ese mismo día, desde las 7:00 de la noche, presentaremos el espectáculo del grupo de árbitros de Las Vegas, ‘The Mighty Sensations’, interpretando éxitos de los 60, que sé será del agrado del público que venga a ver la cartelera. El jueves, 19, tendremos la gala, donde entregaremos los diferentes premios, entre ellos el de Boxeador del Año, en la actividad que será dedicada a todos nuestros ex Campeones Mundiales. Adicional, tendremos unos seminarios muy importantes de la ABC y unas conferencias sobre el daño cerebral, que serán de gran provecho para los oficiales. Será una gran convención y esperamos que así la puedan disfrutar”.
El combate estelar de la cartelera será por la vacante corona Internacional Jr. Ligero de la OMB entre Edgardo ‘Sasso’ López y José ‘Wonder Boy’ López.
“Para mí es un gran honor poder disputar el Campeonato Internacional de la OMB, que es el organismo de mayor influencia a nivel mundial”, dijo el abogado y CPA, Edgardo ‘Sasso’ López. “Este campeonato ha estado en poder de leyendas del boxeo como Pacquiao, Márquez, Lomachenko, Ward, entre otros. Llevo entrenando hace dos meses para dar lo mejor de mí esa noche. Sé que será un combate bien interesante. Conozco muy bien a ‘Wonder Boy’ y sé que aparte de gustarle las capas y los súper héroes, lo deja todo sobre el cuadrilátero. El martes, 18 de octubre, aunque él piense que tiene súper poderes, mis puños van a ser su ‘kriptonita’ y lo estaré ‘sassonando’ toda la noche”.
En el pleito semiestelar de la noche, la actual Campeona Mundial Femenino de la OMB en el peso pluma, Amanda ‘Real Deal’ Serrano, buscará hacer historia cuando busque coronarse en una cuarta división, esto al disputar el vacante Campeonato Jr. Pluma ante la húngara Alexandra Lazar.
Mientras, el ex Campeón Latino Jr. Gallo, David Quijano, retará al monarca NABO mosca, el filipino Joebert Alvarez.
La conferencia contó con la presencia de los ex Campeones Mundiales John John Molina y Samuel ‘Torbellino’ Serrano, el actual monarca Jr. Ligero de la FIB José ‘Sniper’ Pedraza, los prospectos Félix Caraballo y Marcos Osorio, los entrenadores Luis Espada, Margaro Cruz, Gerardo Sánchez, Jesús ‘Chuito’ Ayala y José Luis Trabal, los promotores Héctor Soto, Bryan Pérez y Peter Rivera, el árbitro Luis Pabón y el juez Nelson Vázquez.
Adicional a Válcarcel y Batista Salas, por parte de la OMB estuvieron presente el Secretario Ejecutivo Lcdo. José Izquierdo, el Tesorero Adolfo Flores y Presidente del Comité de Quejas y Agravios Alberto Rodríguez.
Los boletos para la cartelera ‘Noche de Campeones DIRECTV’ están a la venta en www.prticket.com.
Para más información, formularios de inscripción y todo lo relacionado a la 29na Convención de la OMB, accedan a: www.wboboxing.com/convention y/o pueden llamar al (787) 765-4781/ (787) 765-4628.
TO ALL GOLFERS:
Dear Friends:Paco and the whole WBO family want to thank you for joining in this year’s Golf outing to kick-off our annual convention at Orlando Florida.Once again, we look forward to an exciting and enjoyable event, and want to advance some information to help you prepare and facilitate with logistics:1. We will play Falcon’s Fire Golf Course, one of Central Florida’s premier golf venues, located at 3200 Seralago Blvd., Kissimmee, Florida, 34746, about 15 minutes from the convention hotel.2. The “shotgun start” will be 0800 hrs (8:00 AM), Monday October 26.3. Transportation from hotel to the Golf club is being arranged to leave at 0715 hrs. (7:15 AM). Please be in the bus 5 minutes before to depart on time and have time to warm-up before teeing off.4. Let me know if you need to rent clubs (if Right or Left hand) and I will reserve for you.5. The tournament will be Medal Play, individual with handicap (24 max) and a Calloway category.6. Awards: First, Second, Third and Fourth Place Net; First, Second and Third Place Calloway; closest-to-pin on two Par 3s (one on each side), Straightest Drive and Longest Drive.7. On course cart for beverages and snacks.8. Buffet Lunch at the course after the game with trophies presentation.9. Bus should pick us at course between 2:30-2:45 PM and return to hotel.Please let me know if there’s anything we can do to assist you with this activity.Kind Regards,Col. Jr Rivera561-479-6830
“I’m in agreement with the ABC’s request to the US Attorney General to investigate Haymon,” said WBO president Paco Valcarcel on Thursday via Twitter. “The time is right to investigate him and all of us! The World Boxing Organization is willing to cooperate with any investigation of the US Attorney General for the betterment of the sport of boxing. As discussed in our WBO Convention in October, Ali Act should define the “advisor” figure and penalties increased to 5 years in prison/250k.”
http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/wbo-backs-investigation-of-haymon-288918
By David Finger \ Photos: Joel A. Colon/WBO\
The third and final day of the 27th annual WBO Convention kicked off yesterday morning, and as anticipated, the open forum of the championship and ratings committees was not without fireworks. The day began with a short video presentation of the charitable work done by both the WBO and numerous WBO champions to promote the WBO “Kids Drug Free” program.
The second order of business came when Vice President John Duggan proposed a resolution that clarified that the position of “vice president of the China Zone” is now vacant and that the China commission is not to use any trademarks or logos. The resolution would also transfer this over to the Asia Pacific region. The resolution would be passed unanimously.
There then followed a brief discussion of the 2015 budget and a proposed amendment to the budget, which passed as well. Following this budget discussion, Joe Cortez briefly spoke of the role of instant replay in Nevada. “Instant replay in Nevada has been in play for two years,” Cortez said, “but it hasn’t been used.” Cortez noted that in Nevada only a referee has the discretion to overturn his or her decision, before adding that the “door was open” to any adjustments that needed to be made in regards to the rule as it stands in Nevada.
From there WBO junior welterweight champion Chris Algieri spoke of the importance of being a role model as a champion.
“Being a champion is a world wide title,” Algieri said, “there are a lot of eyes on you. A lot of young eyes. As a champion you want to present yourself to the world as a champion. As a role model.” Algieri was subsequently presented the WBO Gordy Volkman Man of the Year Award for Outstanding Community Service.
Following the presentation of the Gordy Volkman Award to Algieri, the discussion then turned to where to host the 2015 WBO Convention. Although the Philippines had been the early front runner, having been named in 2013 as the location of the 2015 convention, it was passed over for Florida. Citing concerns over the recent typhoon in the Philippines, and the impact that had on the feasibility of hosting the event there, President Valcarcel accepted a recommendation for the 2015 WBO Convention to be held in Orlando, Florida. Puerto Rico was named as a backup location. President Valcarcel, however, indicated a strong desire to eventually have the WBO convention in the Philippines in the near future.
A brief video fallowed in which highlights of the 2013 WBO Convention in Budapest was shown. Heavyweight Charles Martin was awarded the NABO fighter of the year award at that time as well as several other special recognition awards to journalist Pedro Fernandez, Ulf Steinforth, and Wladimir Klitschko. Wilfried Sauerland was given an award after having been named “European Promoter of the Year” as well.
From there the ever contentious championship and ratings committee kicked off with their session.
This started in the mini-flyweight division, where Japanese matchmaker Ulysses Sato pushed to have his fighter enter the WBO rankings.
There were no requests at junior flyweight and only one at flyweight (to move an undefeated European champion into the WBO ranks). However, the relative lack of controversy in the lowest weight classes was not a harbinger of what would follow, as the discussions became more intensive starting with the junior bantamweight division. Representatives for #5 ranked Paul Butler requested a move to #1 or, in the alternative, to have the winner of the Paul Butler-Jamie Conlan fight be named the mandatory challenger. Conlan is ranked #7 by the WBO. Although Frank Warren’s request to have the winner of the Butler-Conlan fight named “interim champion” was denied, the committee and President Valcarcel did agree to name the winner of that fight as mandatory challenger for champion Omar Narvaez.
At bantamweight several promoters made arguments to have their fighters move into the top ten, most notably #13 ranked Pungluang Sor Sinyu and #14 ranked Lee Haskins.
At junior featherweight the executive committee did acknowledge the difficulties that Guillermo Rigondeaux was having finding opponents willing to take him on. Hedi Taouab Mohammed initially pushed to have his fighter, #4 ranked Zsolt Bedak, move up in the rankings before President Valcarcel inquired about a possible matchup between Bedak and #2 ranked Genesis Servania.
At featherweight a compelling argument was put forth by representatives of King Sports to have undefeated Colombian banger Miguel Marriaga move into the top ten. A proposed fight between #8 ranked British bomber Mark McCollough and #5 ranked Polish fighter Kamil Laszczyk was also discussed, as well as the possibility of the winner of that fight moving up into the top four. Ulysses Sato made a push to have Filipino Mark Gil Melligen, the #13 ranked WBO Oriental champion, move into the top ten.
A familiar name was brought up in the junior lightweight discussions as Main Events pushed to have Edner Cherry return to the top ten on the basis of his nine fight winning streak. President Valcarcel seemed open to the proposal.
At lightweight it appeared highly likely that Juan Diaz might move up from #3 to #1 after the current #1 contender, Ray Beltran, fights the WBO champion Terence Crawford. The prospect of the #1 slot opening up brought out numerous other requests, including one from representatives of #4 ranked Anthony Crolla. However, that request was immediately challenged by Frank Warren, who reminded the executive committee that Crolla “never fought anyone in the WBO top 15” before offering his fighter, #9 ranked Terry Flanagan as a strong candidate to move up.
At junior welterweight the recognition that the title may be at play in the coming months also led to a contentious and colorful discussion. Ruslan Provodnikov’s camp made an argument to have him leapfrog #1 ranked Lucas Matthysse. Several fighters had representatives push to have them move into the top ten, including Emanuel Taylor and veteran Paul Spadafora.
In the welterweight division several promoters jockeyed to have their fighters move up, with the most notable being undefeated Canadian prospect Mikael Zewski, undefeated Fredrick Lawson, and the winner of the upcoming Jeff Horn-Robson Assis fight. Horn, the WBO Oriental Champion, is ranked #11 while Assis, the WBO Latino champion, is ranked #12.
In the junior middleweight division Frank Warren pushed to have #10 ranked Liam Smith move up while representatives of #13 ranked Sirimongkol Singwancha also pushed to have the Thai based fighter move into the top ten.
In the middleweight division the biggest news came when the WBO championship and rating committee voted unanimously to name the winner of a proposed four fighter elimination as the top middleweight. The first fight, between #4 ranked Andy Lee and #1 ranked Matt Korobov, would then face the winner of the Billy Saunders –Chris Eubank fight. Saunders is currently ranked #2 while Eubanks is ranked #9. Also noteworthy in the discussions regarding the middleweight division were proposals to move Abraham Han into the world rankings as well as a push to have Willie Monroe Jr. move up in the rankings.
In the light heavyweight division several fighters received pushes to move up the rankings including #11 ranked Isidro Ranoni Prieto, who already is emerging as arguably the most popular fighter ever from Paraguay.
In the cruiserweight division a second four fighter elimination looks likely as the winner of the upcoming Tony Bellew-Nathan Cleverly fight would fight either #1 ranked Krzysztof Glowacki or #3 ranked Nuri Seferi with the winner being named the mandatory for WBO Champion Marco Huck. Bellew is currently ranked #4 while Cleverly is currently ranked #5.
In the heavyweight division the discussion revolved around Wladimir Klitschko and who his next mandatory challenger would be, as well as when he would be required to fight that fighter. After some discussion, it became apparent that the winner of the upcoming Tyson Fury-Dereck Chisora fight would be named mandatory challenger to the WBO champion, although the timetable of that mandatory defense was still not set in stone.
Rounding off the event was the gala banquet in which the family of the recently deceased Dan Goossen was presented with an honorary WBO belt. Several other awards were handed out, including WBO Promoter of the year (Bob Arum), WBO Fight of the year (Crawford-Gamboa), WHO female fighter of the year (Carolina Duer), WBO fighter of the year (Sergey Kovalev), Spanish Network of the year (Telemundo), and an award to Vasyl Lomachenko, who was given an award for being the WBO champion with the brightest future. Rounding off the gala banquet was a touching and moving ceremony where both Joe Calzaghe and Oscar De La Hoya were awarded lifetime champion awards by the WBO. Both Calzage and De La Hoya gave moving speeches about their ties to the WBO, and how important the WBO belt had meant to them as fighters.
http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/giant-wbo-2014-convention-day-three-report-266898
By David Finger \ Photos: Joel A. Colon/WBO
The second business day of the 27th annual WBO Convention at Caesars Palace Las Vegas kicked off yesterday morning with a much anticipated discussion on proffering recommendations to U.S. Senators John McCain and Harry Reid recommending several amendments to the Muhammad Ali Act, originally passed by Congress in 1996.
However, a special visit from former WBO champion Marco Antonio Barrera, prompted a short delay in the days activity to allow WBO President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel to celebrate the arrival of the Hall of Fame champion.The visibly warm relationship between Valcarcel and Barrera was highlighted as Barrera called the WBO his “family” before Valcarcel called Barrera the star of “the golden age of Mexico boxing.””Marco became an example of great champion,” Valcarcel said, “A Very intelligent family man, clean man. Honest. We would be proud to tell any child this is a model for you.”
From there WBO General Secretary Jose Izquierdo gave a presentation to the members and the Executive Committee on a list of recommendations to the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act and ways that the WBO can work with the US Federal Government to help implement these changes.
“We don’t want to make rules in isolation,” Izquierdo said of his desire to see the WBO work with the federal government and the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) on implementing these reforms, “when we make policies in isolation they become impossible to implement due to jurisdictional limitations. Boxing organizations need to stop conceiving rules in isolation that because of jurisdictional limitations do nothing to better our sport.”
Izquierdo recommended that the WBO petition the federal government and the ABC to implement several changes such as clarifying the role of an “advisor.”
We think the law should define some language that who an advisor is,” Izquierdo said. The Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act prohibits a promoter from also acting as a manager to a fighter, or from having an interest in managing a fighter. However, this is something that has been circumvented in boxing through the gray area regarding what the role of an “advisor” is.
Izquierdo also recommended stiffer penalties for violations to the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act, increasing the maximum jail sentence for a violation as well as the minimum fines. Izquierdo discussed raising the penalty to five years for a violation.
“We think the law is very good,” Izquierdo said of the proposed increased penalty, “we want to give it more bite and to clarify it.”
Izquierdo also wanted to bring uniformity to the Act, expressing concern over the “piecemeal regulations” that were different throughout the country.
Another recommendation by Izquierdo was the prohibition of charging a fee for appeals, a policy implemented by some other sanctioning organizations.
“It is not transparent when you charge a fee for something that should be simple due process,” Izquierdo said of the policy.
President Valcarcel then chimed in, condemning the policy in boxing where a fighter would leapfrog over more deserving contenders not due to his accomplishments in the ring but due to his connections to a particular promoter.
The President and Executive Committee also spoke at length about a poorly administered fight out of Puerto Rico in which a judge not only erroneously scored a round 9-7, but then was able to convince the commission to allow him to amend his scorecard after turning it in. The commission in Puerto Rico had not taken action against the judge who not only made a critical error in regards to the 10-point must system, but also tried to influence another judge to also score the round in question in a similar manner. This judge not only avoided suspension, but continued to work in Puerto Rico.
“That guy is incompetent,” Valcarcel said of the judge in question, “unfortunately they (the commission) stuck their head in the sand like an ostrich. This law must be amended so that it has teeth.”
In the end, the WBO Executive Committee unanimously voted to establish a committee to further explore the issue and to embrace recommendations for the proposed amendments to the law. This committee will subsequently present its report to legislators at a later date.
Before closing for lunch, the Executive Committee briefly discussed several other issues, including one present to the Committee by WBO member Markus Aslani regarding an organization operating in Europe called the GBA. Aslani expressed serious concern over the safety standards of the GBA and its rather lax administration of these standards. President Valcarcel requested Aslani to present more information to him on the matter so that he could make an informed decision regarding the discussion at hand.
After lunch the event split up into two groups, with judges and officials attending a ABC Seminars while the majority of members of the Executive Committee hosted a session for WBO supervisors. The supervisor’s seminar took a moment to moment to recognize James Toney, who was in attendance, as well as Marc Ratner, former Nevada Athletic Director. Interestingly enough, considering the guest in attendance, was this issue of a fighter “losing too much weight” at the weigh in.
“James came in twelve pounds over once,” Ratner said in regards to Toney, “he still made weight. I didn’t know that could happen.”
Several members of the Executive Committee then openly questioned if weigh-ins the day before a fight were doing more damage to the health of fighters than the older system of having them weight in the day of the fight. However, the position regarding the weigh-in remained disputed.
“Promoters use the weigh-in as a promotional event,” WBO vice president John Duggan said of the day before weigh-in.
Also discussed at the supervisor’s seminar was the role of a WBO supervisor, as the representative there to award the WBO championship in accordance with WBO rules.
“We are there to give the prize away,” WBO legal advisor Andrew Horn said, “not to promote the fight.”
Also, there was a tremendous rules meeting discussion spearheaded by Greg Sirb, executive director of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission. Topics included the importance of detailed rules regarding hand wraps, with the State of Colorado cited as a shining example of a well written rule, as well as the role of the supervisor when a judge badly drops the ball as had happened in Puerto Rico during the Jose Lopez-Roberto Castaneda debacle. The role of a supervisor’s discretion was a hot topic during the debate. Also discussed was how a supervisor is to handle a dispute regarding the brand of gloves used in a contest, with the recognition that the contract ultimately in controlling if there is language regarding the gloves. The Convention wrapped up that evening with another cocktail party at 7pm. The Convention will resume at 8:30 on Thursday with a presentation by Chris Algieri as well as the championship ratings committee.
http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/giant-wbo-2014-convention-day-two-report-266604
Dear Colleagues & Friends:
We are pleased to announce our 25th Annual Convention WBO Silver Jubilee and Election to be held at the famous Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida from the 22nd to the 26th of October, 2012.
We request that golf participants arrive on the 21st of October as the golf tournament will be held on the following day, Monday, October 22nd. It will be held at the Delaire Country Club 4645 White Cedar Lane, Delray Beach, FL 33445.
Make it a point to separate these important dates in your agenda now. Remember you represent the most important factor to attain success and keep the sport of Boxing in the forefront. Ensuring your attendance will put your personal stamp on the History of the Sweet Science- Boxing.
While you are in Hollywood, see what the City of Hollywood and South Florida has to offer. Check out the city’s website at www.hollywoodfl.org. Another interesting option is to visit a Seminole Indian Reservation. Their website is www.semtribe.com. It’s the place to go for those interesting tours and cultural events.
So, remember, we have a date! It’s October 22nd (21st) to the 26th in Hollywood, Florida, proud Home of Seminole Tribe of Florida and our home too during the WBO’s Silver Jubilee and Election week at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
See you soon!
Cordially,
Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel
WBO President
https://www.wboboxing.com/wbo-25th-convention/
As the World Boxing Organization closed out its 24th Annual Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico, there are many boxing insiders who are admittedly surprised at the success of the WBO. Closing in on its 25th year in existence, there are few who don’t regard the WBO as one of the premiere sanctioning organizations in the world. Founded when a group of WBA members left that organization citing anger at how that group was run, the WBO seemed at first to face an insurmountable challenge in its quest to emerge as a major sanctioning body. In those early years the WBO had less credibility than the big three of the WBA, WBC, and IBF, and those three organizations, along with the boxing media and boxing pundits, appeared keen to see the WBO fail. But it became clear almost immediately that the WBO was not going to just fade away or be ignored. They remained steadfast in their adherence to putting on quality fights with legitimate champions. Before long the WBO belt was held in the highest regards, thanks in part to champions like Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao.
However, the WBO owes much of its success to its leadership and its determination. Each year the WBO challenges itself to step up to the plate, a mentality that is a driving force for the WBO’s success. And much of that driving force over the past decade can be attributed to its current president: Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel. Valcarcel took some time to speak to Fightnews about this recent Convention and the WBO’s plans for 2012 and beyond.
What do you think are the most important topics discussed at this year’s WBO Convention?
I think that the seminars were very good, particularly Manny Steward. The referee and judges seminars were excellent. And of course the awards. Klitschko winning fighter of the year and Yessica Bopp from Argentina, as female boxer of the year. It was a great event. And having all the former WBO champions from Puerto Rico here was great. And having Marco Huck here was also great. Also, we used the convention to start work for the 25th anniversary coming up. We will have the next convention in Miami and we will start work tomorrow. The 25th anniversary will be huge. We will have everything. Fireworks and everything else.
What can we expect from the WBO in 2012 for its 25th anniversary?
You know, as I was saying earlier at the convention, that we are going to double the amount of money we used for Kids Free Drugs program. We will work with scholarships, schooling, both high school and elementary. We want to do a lot of community work, using boxing and its champions as role models for the kids, that is the main priority for our 25th anniversary.
What about the” Kids Free Drugs?” What are some of the developments of that program?
It is a program that we have all around the world and now we are working on about 25 different countries in all the continents including China. We work with the kids in the gyms. In the Boys Club. We sponsor track and field. We sponsor soccer. In the program kids use boxers as a role model. We sponsor young kids in the elementary and high school,. We supply equipment for fighters and gyms. We want kids to come from the corner to the gym. If you don’t like boxing, we will train you to be a good baseball player. Or a good soccer player. Or a track star. We don’t want kids on the streets with drugs but in the gym.
What year did Kids Free Drugs start?
It started in January of 1995.
Do you anticipate this to be the biggest year ever for Kids Free Drugs?
No, we have been working for twelve or fourteen years, we invested a lot of money. But we will double the amount of money that we used to dedicate it to community work. We want more countries around the world to join us in that program. And we have our Vice Presidents and our representatives in each country, and they know what they have to do to do some community work for Kids Free Drugs.
How does it feel to be home for this convention?
It is always nice to be at home, but then I have to remember that I am WBO president, but I also have a lot of work here waiting for me. But Puerto Rico has a proud boxing tradition. We have a lot of former world champions, over fifty world champions from Puerto Rico. We are here with Mexico, and the USA as major boxing nations. And that is good when you come home, when you do something good for your country. For your country to have something special. It is a great satisfaction. For the week we have been here, and according to the people I’ve talked to, we’ve brought in over four million dollars for the country.
You discussed problems in the past in opening up in Japan. But at this year’s convention several Japanese promoters could be seen in attendance. Any news on the Japanese front?
I don’t want to make any disclosure, but I can tell you we have been working for more than 5 years. I think we can finally deliver, and I think we will be in Japan. Sooner than later I can assure you of that.
Who are the fighters you are most excited to see in WBO title fights in 2011 and 2012?
I want to see what happens with Ivan Calderon. I would like to know what will happen with Brian Viloria and Giovani Segura. They will fight in the Philippines, and most likely I will go there for that fight. And Omar Narvaez, I would like to know what happens with him when he fights Cesar Seda. And at 122, we will know if Nonito Donaire will move up in weight, and what will happen with Jorge Arce, if he wants to go for his 5th title in a different division. I don’t know what he will do, but I know he wants to make history. At 130 we have Adrien Broner fighting Vicente Martin Rodriguez in Cincinnati in an HBO fight. The winner will probably fight Luis Cruz. It will be very exciting. At lightweight we have Ricky Burns and Michael Katsidis. Tim Bradley, he is one of the best 140 at the moment
This convention saw numerous delegates from what has previously been seen as hostile territory such as Japan and Mexico. And the developments in China and Afrca continue to expand the influence of the WBO. How important is this for the continued growth of the WBO and how does the WBO continue its expansion into uncharted territory?
Let me tell you, we have presidents all around the world. We are doing more oriental titles than PABA and OPBF put together. In Europe we have been dominating in the last 15 years. In the USA we have the best promoters working with us. And we still have the best prospects fighting for the regional and youth titles and receiving the opportunity to fight for the world title. And we have Pacquaio, Donarie, Viloria, a lot of good fighters, Klitschko, Huck. We have new prospects like Broner. We have new blood.
Tell us more about the development of the WBO Youth Belt?
We are going to have more fights with these young fighters. As long as they are under twenty-three, and the fight is between an eight and ten rounder. But we will have more and more youth champs in WBO. And we want to give more publicity to our regional champions, using our new web page. It is sensational, we are the leaders in social networking. This convention is already on our webpage!
By David Finger
http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/qa-francisco-paco-valcarcel-100251
Ghana’s Light Heavyweight boxer, Braimah Kamoko has been adjudged the African Boxer of the Year by the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) for the year 2011.
Kamoko nicknamed “Bukom Banku”, was named the finest African boxer by the global boxing body at its annual convention held from 24-29 October in Puerto Rico. Information gathered by GNA Sports indicates that 31-year old Kamoko, holder of the WBO Africa Light Heavyweight title stood out amongst his competitors for the honour awarded to the most distinguished boxer during the year under review.
Famed for his antics in and outside the ring, Kamoko won his two fights during the year; managing a unanimous decision over Namibian Vikapita Merero in June and a fourth round knockout of Uruguayan Jorge Rodriguez Oliviera earlier in January. It is the most recognised individual honour for the enterprising boxer since joining the professional ranks in 2000.
With a record of 22-0-0, the Bukom-based boxer has risen to number two on the WBO latest ratings as far as the Light Heavyweight division is concerned. The number one contender is Russian Dmitry Sukhotsky, the Inter-continental champion with British Nathan Cleverly as the Champion.
The latest rankings takes Kamoko closest to realising his long-cherished dream of a world title within the shortest possible time as he is the only African in the top five bracket.
It’s been a great WBO Convention for the Philippines with “Promoter of the Year” Sammy Gello-ani joined by two other boxers and a referee at the recently concluded WBO Awards ceremony in Puerto Rico.
WBO Asia Pacific vice president Leon Panoncillo told the Manila Standard that undefeated 22 year old Froilan “The Sniper” Saludar who has a record of 13-0-1 with 10 knockouts was named WBO Asia Pacific and WBO World Youth flyweight “Boxer of the Year.”
Saludar won the Asia Pacific title with a rousing 10th round TKO over Gabriel Pumar in an exciting title fight at the Island Cove Resort in Cavite telecast by AKTV IBC Channel 13 last August 6.
Saludar had earlier won the vacant Youth title with a sensational 1st round TKO over Thailand’s Liempetch Sor Veerapol on the top rated weekly boxing show “The Main Event” also telecast on AKTV IBC Channel 13.
Undefeated 19 year old southpaw Jerwin Ancajas was named WBO Asia Pacific Youth bantamweight “Boxer of the Year” for winning the title by a unanimous ten round decision over Rex Tito last April 16.
Referee, lawyer Danrex Tapdasan was awarded the WBO Asia Pacific “Official of the Year” and commended as “ as one of Asia’s most
Photo: Froilan Saludar (C) with WBO Vice-President Leon Panoncillo (L) and Promoter Samson Gello-ani (R).
By Ronnie Nathanielsz
http://philboxing.com/news/story-62068.html
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