The WBA elevated “Rolly” to Super Champion: Giyasov and Catterall to fight for vacant welterweight title – World Boxing Association

The World Boxing Association (WBA) has officially designated Rolando “Rolly” Romero as Super World Champion. As part of the ruling, the WBA also approved the fight for the vacant welterweight world title between top-ranked contender Shakhram Giyasov and No. 6-ranked challenger Jack Catterall. The bout is scheduled to take place this Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

The decision was made by the WBA Championships Committee following a formal request from Romero’s team and after reviewing his accomplished run as a three-division WBA champion.

Romero first captured the WBA interim lightweight title in August 2020 with a victory over Jackson Mariñez and successfully defended the belt once. He later claimed the WBA super lightweight world championship in May 2023 by defeating Ismael Barroso and most recently secured the WBA welterweight crown with his win over Ryan Garcia on May 2, 2025.

The sanctioning body also established that Romero must face the winner of the Giyasov vs. Catterall showdown within a maximum period of 180 days after the fight takes place.

The resolution issued by the WBA is supported by the organization’s rules and regulations, which grant the Championships Committee and the WBA President the authority to designate Super Champions under exceptional circumstances and in the best interest of the sport.