Martinez Seeks Interim Championship Status
Martinez affirmed his pursuit of this designation once his anticipated second bout with Christian Mbilli did not proceed. Mbilli had been promoted to the undisputed WBC champion earlier in the year, consequently denying Martinez an immediate path to a title, notwithstanding their split decision draw in September.
“I genuinely believed I secured the victory on September 13th, and it has been disheartening not to have a second fight with Mbilli,” Martinez commented. “I extend my sincere gratitude to Mauricio and the World Boxing Council’s Board of Governors for this chance. Becoming the inaugural Guatemalan champion has always been my ambition.”
The World Boxing Council referenced Martinez’s showing against Mbilli and the failure to arrange a return match as primary considerations for bestowing the provisional status. Additionally, Martinez received the organization’s 2025 Fight of the Year accolade for his encounter with Mbilli.
Garry Jonas, the founder of ProBox, acknowledged the sanction and its profound importance for Martinez’s standing in his professional career.
“This represents a just and appropriate resolution, allowing Lester an opportunity to contend for the identical championship he vied for against Mbilli,” Jonas stated. “This holds immense significance for Lester and for his nation. Guatemala has yet to celebrate a world champion, and we harbor strong hopes that he can secure the title on March 21st.”
Provisional Victor Secures Title Contendership
Aleem, ranked 14th within the WBC standings, is set to participate in his inaugural bout for an interim title.
Provisional championships frequently recalibrate the hierarchy of contenders instantly.
The victor of the Martinez versus Aleem encounter on March 21st will be crowned the WBC provisional super middleweight champion. This implies that the winner will be positioned to vie for the undisputed WBC championship, regardless of who triumphs in the September confrontation between current champion Christian Mbilli and Canelo Alvarez.
