It’s official: the WBC has ordered a rematch between Christian Mbilli and Lester Martinez! Their first fight was nothing short of a world war: punches flying everywhere, an unrelenting pace, nonstop twists and turns, and action pouring in from all sides. Offering a second chapter to this story is like giving the audience a scene they’ve been dreaming of seeing again—but this time with even more intensity, suspense, and emotion.
From a sporting perspective, it’s hard to imagine a better matchup. Mbilli, still as explosive as ever, embodies lightning and predatory instinct. Martinez is pure resilience—the warrior who refuses to back down, even when everything seems to be going against him. Putting these two men back in the ring together is offering fans the perfect scenario: a clear-cut rematch, two credible contenders, and a fight that promises to be unforgettable.
Photo: Zuffa Boxing – Christian Mbilli vs Lester Martinez
And when this fight happens, I hope it gets the spotlight it deserves: either as the main event or at least as the co-main event of a blockbuster card featuring two of the best boxers on the planet. A clash with this level of intensity deserves a stage worthy of it. I also hope that Mbilli and Martinez are paid fairly, and that this event gives several other fighters a chance to shine on the same card. Because that’s how you grow boxing—by giving space to the established warriors, but also to those still waiting for their moment.
But behind the excitement and the spotlight, another reality emerges: the decisions of the WBC. And here, I must admit, I find some things hard to understand. I have tremendous respect for this organization and for the many reforms it has implemented to protect boxers. But some inconsistencies remain.
Take Canelo Alvarez. For years, the WBC was never able to enforce its mandatory challengers on him. Meanwhile, Christian Mbilli, who has been ranked WBC #1 at 168 pounds for a long time, has been waiting backstage, never getting his shot. David Benavidez, on his end, had to outright change weight classes and move up to 175 pounds just to finally see the WBC announce a fight with Artur Beterbiev. And in the end, Beterbiev dropped his belt in order to give Dmitry Bivol a rematch.
Photo: East Side Boxing – Christian Mbilli vs Lester Martinez
So why, in this context, does the Mbilli–Martinez rematch become a top priority? Why do some boxers have to wait forever for their chance, while others are subject to a strict enforcement of the rules?
I’ll say it again: I love the WBC, I appreciate its ongoing efforts to improve our sport and protect athletes. But sometimes, it’s like a movie where the plot loses coherence. And it’s those contradictions that leave me puzzled.
One thing is certain, though: the second chapter of Mbilli–Martinez will have boxing fans on the edge of their seats. It will be action, drama, and spectacle. But behind this great showdown, boxing itself must also find a more fair and coherent script—because this sport, and its heroes, deserve a story worthy of their courage.
Photo: Christian Mbilli vs Lester Martinez
