South African boxer Kevin Lerena is excited after the World Boxing Council (WBC) elevated him to full bridgerweight champion status.
Lerena’s elevation followed after former champion Lawrence Okolie wrote to the WBC advising the organisation about his decision to vacate the bridgerweight title as he wanted to pursue a heavyweight crown.
And because of the Briton’s decision, the WBC elevated interim bridgerweight titlist Lerena, who is 32 years old, to full champion.
“Obviously, I feel good. Now it’s about making the fights happen. We’ve been patient, waiting for Okolie to make his decision. I’m excited. Once we defend the belt, we will also fight in the heavyweight division. I have that ability to fight in big heavyweight bouts,” Lerena said.
This is the second world title for Lerena as he is a former International Boxing Organisation (IBO) cruiserweight champion. – Monwabisi Jimlongo