Following his dalliance as a heavyweight, a dalliance that saw Tony Bellew beat David Haye, his future as a cruiserweight is in doubt.
Although the reigning WBC cruiserweight champion has hinted at retirement, he?s also suggested that his last fight could be another huge money-spinner, in the heavyweight division.
Acknowledging that their champion has done nothing to damage his status as the WBC cruiserweight champion of the world, but wary that he may not fight at that weight division again, the WBC have changed Bellew?s status to that of Emeritus Champion.
The status effectively means that he can return to contest the WBC title whenever he chooses.
Talking about their decision the WBC have remarked in a statement,
‘Tony Bellew has become a major attraction in the heavyweight division and is at this moment uncertain of his next steps following his life changing victory.
‘The Emeritus Champion designation is a privilege, which has been successfully used by some of the great champions of the history of our organisation including Vitali Klitschko, Floyd Mayweather, Bernard Hopkins, Erik Morales and other greats.’
As a consequence the cruiserweight fight between Mairis Bredis and Marco Huck, this Saturday, will be for the WBC belt.
34-year-old Bellew won the title back in May, defeating Ilunga Makabu at Goodison Park but, with regards to his future, fights against Deontay Wilder and Joseph Parker, or a re-match with David Haye, have been spoken about.
We can but wait and see.
Bellew Appointed WBC Emeritus Champion Status
