The World Boxing Association (WBA), through its Championships Committee, granted special permit to middleweight champion Erislandy Lara to fight Danny Garcia on August 5.

The company TGB Promotions sent the request to the entity, which was studied in depth to determine the most appropriate decision. Team Zerafa was consulted and after arduous negotiations it was possible to reach an agreement between both parties.

According to the WBA rules in section C.16, it states that the body may modify the periods of mandatory defenses for good cause, either in response to a request for a Special Permit, or on its own initiative. On the other hand, rule C.46.a states that the WBA may modify or suspend the strict application of these rules when the WBA deems it justified in its sole discretion to accommodate special circumstances. The rules also state that the agency may require conditions for granting a permit. 

In this case, the committee decided to grant the request to the Lara team as long as they comply with all championship rules. On the other hand, the winner between Lara and Garcia, or Lara should the fight end in a draw, is obligated to fight Zerafa within 120 days after their bout. 

In the case of Zerafa, he may make an optional fight against a body-approved contender while awaiting a world title fight in his mandatory challenger’s position.