The World Boxing Association (WBA) has granted a special permit to WBA Super Flyweight World Champion David Jiménez of Costa Rica to make a voluntary title defense against Japan’s Seigo Yuri Akui on November 29 in Tokyo, Japan.

The request was submitted on September 22 by Teiken Promotions on behalf of Jiménez. The WBA notified Golden Boy Promotions, the company representing mandatory challenger John Ramírez, who opposed the request due to the ongoing negotiation process previously established for his mandatory world title bout.

After reviewing the arguments presented by both parties and the provisions of its regulations, the WBA determined that it has the authority to modify mandatory defense deadlines and grant special permits under justified circumstances.

The winner of the bout between Jiménez and Akui must face Ramírez in a mandatory title defense within 120 days of the fight. In the event of a draw, Jiménez will still be required to fulfill the mandatory obligation within the same timeframe.

Ramírez has also been authorized to participate in a bout without a title at stake.

Jiménez was elevated to WBA Super Flyweight World Champion on June 10, 2026, following Jesse Rodríguez’s move to the bantamweight division, which left the title vacant. The Costa Rican had previously won the WBA interim title on April 20, 2024, defeating Ramírez by unanimous decision in Brooklyn, New York. He subsequently made two successful defenses of that belt.

The ruling remains subject to compliance with all other WBA rules and regulatory obligations.