Reading about Broner (who's had all of four fights in the last six years) being inexplicably dropped by parachute at #8 in the WBA welter rankings (and #15 in the WBC)... leads me to ponder about OTHER ridiculous rankings concocted by these amazingly inept and corrupt boxing organizations.

Of course we all remember the Ngannou magic rankings story... thankfully obliterated by Anthony Joshua right hands.

Boxing organizations (led by the WBC, but followed sometimes closely by the WBA) never cease to amaze us with their sheer incompetence, bias, and corruption politics. Belts held hostage by favorite sons... inactive fighters being strangely protected and rewarded... bogus belts created on a whim (the WBC is a master at this)... and other such nonsense.

Meanwhile, incongruencies abound. While fighters like Canelo Alvarez is allowed to openly duck the David Benavidez's of the world... other fighters like Subriel Matias, right now a feared fighter at 140, are forced to defend against dangerous fighter after dangerous fighter.

I got the following from a Bing search, and it seems like a good place to start:

Boxing rankings are a fascinating yet often contentious aspect of the sport. Let’s delve into the intriguing world of boxing politics:


1. Sanctioning Bodies and Their Influence:
WBC (World Boxing Council), WBA (World Boxing Association), IBF (International Boxing Federation), and WBO (World Boxing Organization) are the major sanctioning bodies. Each has its own set of champions and rankings.
These bodies wield significant power. Their decisions impact fighters’ careers, title opportunities, and rankings.
Politics: Sometimes, a fighter’s alignment with a specific sanctioning body or promoter can affect their ranking. Close ties lead to favorable treatment.
2. Promoters and Managers:
Promoters play a crucial role. They negotiate fights, build fighters’ profiles, and influence rankings.
Politics: Promoters may push for their fighters to receive higher rankings, even if their performance doesn’t warrant it. Financial interests often drive these decisions.
3. Regional Bias:
Politics: Certain regions have more influence. A fighter from a boxing powerhouse country might receive preferential treatment in rankings.
Example: A Mexican fighter might get a boost due to Mexico’s rich boxing history.
4. Interests of TV Networks and Streaming Platforms:
Politics: Networks invest in fighters. Their influence extends to rankings.
Example: A fighter with a lucrative TV deal might find themselves ranked higher, regardless of merit.
5. Controversial Decisions and Rematches:
Politics: Rankings can shift dramatically after a controversial decision. Rematches are often arranged to maintain interest and revenue.
Example: A close fight might lead to an immediate rematch, affecting rankings.
6. Champion’s Privilege:
Politics: Champions often receive preferential treatment. They might avoid mandatory challengers or face less threatening opponents.
Example: A champion might skip a mandatory defense, leading to a shuffle in rankings.
7. Inactivity and Frozen Rankings:
Politics: Some fighters remain inactive but retain their rankings. It’s baffling how time doesn’t erode their position.
Example: A fighter on hiatus due to contractual disputes maintains their spot.
8. Lobbying and Negotiations:
Politics: Managers and promoters lobby sanctioning bodies for favorable rankings.
Example: A well-connected team can secure a higher position.
9. Fan Influence and Popularity:
Politics: Fan favorites often receive better rankings. Public demand matters.
Example: A charismatic fighter with a large following might leapfrog others.
10. Legacy Rankings:
Politics: Past achievements sometimes overshadow current form.
Example: A legendary fighter’s ranking might not reflect their present abilities.
Remember, boxing rankings are subjective, influenced by a complex web of interests. So, when you see a ranking that leaves you scratching your head, know that you’re not alone—boxing politics can be as unpredictable as a knockout punch!