Interim WBA World super lightweight titlist Jose Benavidez has vacated his title in order to move up to the welterweight division.

First-ranked by the WBA, 23-year-old Benavidez is an undefeated six-year pro (24-0, 16 KOs) who won the title by beating Mauricio Herrera via unanimous decision in December 2014. Born in Panorama City, California, but fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, Benavidez successfully defended his title last May by stopping Jorge Paez Jr. via 12th-round TKO. He most recently fought this past December, defeating Sidney Siqueira by unanimous decision.

The title will remain vacant as part of the WBA’s recently announced objective to ultimately have one world champion per division.

This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.