Jack Catterall finally reached the world championship tier in May. Less than three months later, his career sits in a holding pattern.
The English southpaw captured the vacant WBA Regular welterweight title with a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Shakhram Giyasov in Saudi Arabia, putting himself in line for the biggest fight of his career. Instead of moving directly into another major bout, Catterall now has little choice but to wait for the outcome of Rolando “Rolly” Romero’s August 22 defense against Teofimo Lopez.
The WBA ordered Catterall to face the winner within 180 days of his victory over Giyasov, making him the mandatory challenger for the organization’s Super championship. That ruling secured his opportunity, yet left his immediate future outside his control.
Taking a stay-busy fight carries obvious risks. A loss would erase the momentum Catterall built by winning his first world title and could jeopardize the championship opportunity now within reach. Remaining inactive isn’t an attractive alternative either, particularly in one of boxing’s deepest divisions.
Meanwhile, the 147-pound division continues to evolve. Devin Haney holds the WBO title after Keyshawn Davis declined a mandatory shot, Brian Norman Jr. continues his own championship run, and Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn remain among the division’s biggest attractions.
Staying visible is clearly a priority for Catterall. Following news that Davis would not pursue Haney, he publicly called for a fight with the WBO champion, posting, “Respect @Realdevinhaney but it’s time to get it on,” while also tagging Bill Haney with the message, “Say the words.” A day later, he followed with another brief message: “I will get my shot.”
Those posts reflect Catterall’s position. He has earned mandatory status, yet cannot negotiate the biggest fight of his career until Romero and Lopez settle the WBA picture later this month. Until then, his next move depends entirely on the outcome in Las Vegas.
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Last Updated on 2026/08/05 at 6:03 AM
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