The World Boxing Association (WBA), through its Championship Committee, informs that the bout between WBA Minimumweight World Champion Oscar Collazo and Mexico’s Neider Valdez has not been approved as a world title fight because Valdez is not currently ranked in the organization’s official ratings.

The decision was communicated by the Committee after learning that Joey Canoy, the challenger originally scheduled to face Collazo, will be unable to participate due to visa-related issues.

As a result, Valdez was selected as the replacement opponent. However, under current WBA regulations, boxers seeking to compete for a world championship must meet the eligibility requirements established by the organization, including being listed in the corresponding official rankings.

For that reason, it has been determined that the bout between Collazo and Valdez cannot be sanctioned as an official title defense.

The WBA also expressed its willingness to review any alternative proposal that complies with the organization’s rules and requirements.