The WBO issued a letter today outlining a deadline for Undisputed Super Welterweight Champion Jermell Charlo (35-1-1 19KOs) to make mandatory defense vs WBO Interim Champion Tim Tszyu (22-0 16KOs) by September 30, 2023.
Check out the WBO Letter below:
Charlo, who turns 33 on May 19th, has been nursing a broken left hand that was injured during his preparation to fight Tszyu on January 28th. Charlo vs Tszyu was targeted for Summer 2023 but Charlo alert the WBO that he would not be ready until the fall.
Tszyu 28, decided to stay busy in March 2023 by stopping former World Champion Tony Harrison in the 9th round. Now Tszyu looks to keep busy again when he takes on tough Mexico contender Carlos Ocampo (35-2 23KOs) on June 18th in Australia. Showtime will air Tszyu vs Ocampo live on June 17th for the US boxing fans.
The winner of Tszyu vs Ocampo has to face Charlo by September 30. If Charlo is not available to defend, he will be stripped. Per WBO rules the WBO interim will be elevated to full champion.