WBC calls for instant replay in Usyk vs. Fury rematch

The WBC is insisting on the use of instant replay to review contentious incidents during the December 21 rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury. This rule, implemented by the sanctioning body in 2008, has rarely been used due to governance conflicts.

Since its introduction, the instant replay rule has faced significant resistance. The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC), for instance, has consistently rejected video replays as a means to overturn referees' immediate decisions. They argue that the pause required to reach a conclusion—potentially lasting several minutes—harms the sport.

The BBBoC’s significant involvement in boxing events in Saudi Arabia contributed to the rejection of the WBC’s proposal to use replays in the first Usyk-Fury contest in May. Additionally, the other three sanctioning bodies involved in that bout—WBA, IBF, and WBO—do not recognize video replay technology in their rules. This led to the WBC's motion being rejected by all but themselves, citing concerns over mixed messaging.

The WBC remains adamant about the use of instant replay. They argue that it is essential for ensuring fair play and correcting major controversies. The head of the WBC, Mauricio Sulaiman, has emphasized the need for a unified approach to the implementation of video replays.

The BBBoC oversaw the entire undercard for the Usyk-Fury fight but was not the governing body for the main event. However, their influence was significant in the decision-making process for rules and the selection of officials. The local authority, the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission, also had considerable BBBoC influence, leading to the rejection of instant replay.

In 2019, Mauricio Sulaiman was ringside in London when Julio Cesar Martinez was declared the KO winner over WBC flyweight champion Charlie Edwards. Upon reviewing the replays and determining the final blow was illegal, Sulaiman announced it was a no-contest. This decision, although not well-received by BBBoC's General Secretary Robert Smith, remains in the record books.

Beyond instant replay, Sulaiman is lobbying for six judges in the Usyk-Fury rematch instead of the conventional three. This move aims to ensure more accurate and fair scoring.

WBC calls for instant replay in Usyk vs. Fury rematch

The WBC is insisting on the use of instant replay to review contentious incidents during the December 21 rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury. This rule, implemented by the sanctioning body in 2008, has rarely been used due to governance conflicts.

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