The WBC Demands Instant Replay for Usyk-Fury Rematch
The WBC is taking a stand for fair and accurate judging by demanding the use of instant replay for the upcoming rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury on December 21. It’s a bold move by the sanctioning body, as the use of video replays has been a controversial topic in the world of boxing for years.
Implemented by the WBC in 2008, the use of replay technology has been a rare occurrence due to conflicts in governance and differing beliefs on its effectiveness. The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC) has been particularly opposed to it, believing that the pause required for review could harm the sport and that the referee’s decision in the moment should stand.
For the first Usyk-Fury fight in May, the WBC’s request to add instant replay as a rule was rejected by all but themselves. This was due in part to the BBBoC’s significant involvement in the event and mixed messaging from the other sanctioning bodies. However, the WBC remains committed to their stance and will continue to push for its use in all of their fights.
“The WBC will be pushing for instant replay in the rematch and every fight we are involved in,” said Mauricio Sulaiman, president of the WBC.
Despite the BBBoC overseeing the undercard for Usyk-Fury and having a hand in the rules and official selection, they were not the governing body for the main event. It was the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission, who, under pressure from the BBBoC, claimed not to have instant replay technology available.
This conflicting situation highlights just one of the many issues with having multiple governing bodies involved in boxing events. It is clear that the WBC wants to create a universal protocol for using instant replay in order to ensure fairness and accuracy in judging.
In 2019, Sulaiman made the controversial decision to overturn a KO win for Julio Cesar Martinez after reviewing the replay and deeming the finishing blow was illegal. While this decision may not have been popular with the BBBoC, it ultimately stands and demonstrates the power and responsibility held by the WBC.
In addition to instant replay, Sulaiman is also advocating for the use of six judges instead of the traditional three for the Usyk-Fury rematch. This would provide a wider range of opinions and potentially lead to more consistent and accurate judging.
Kosport Magazine’s Take on the Use of Instant Replay in Boxing
While the use of instant replay in boxing may be a contentious topic, the WBC’s demand for its inclusion in the Usyk-Fury rematch sends a clear message that they are committed to ensuring fairness and accuracy in judging. It’s time for all involved to come together and establish a universal protocol for the use of instant replay in order to elevate the sport and provide the best possible outcomes for the fighters.
