Heavyweight Boxer Michael Hunter Faces Setbacks
In a startling turn of events, heavyweight boxer Michael Hunter has seen his chances to compete in two significant bouts evaporate within just a few hours. The former title contender was initially set to square off against Jarrell Miller on September 11, as part of the high-profile fight card featuring Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford. Simultaneously, Don King Productions positioned Hunter for a clash with Kubrat Pulev on October 4, following a WBA mandate to defend the title.
Legal Conflicts and Cancellations
However, this ambitious double-booking quickly unraveled amidst ongoing legal conflicts involving Hunter and Don King Productions. On Thursday, Epic Sports & Entertainment, which promotes the reigning WBA World Heavyweight Champion Kubrat Pulev, officially announced the cancellation of the planned Pulev vs. Hunter matchup, following the invalidation of King’s purse bid.
A statement issued by Epic Sports criticized the actions of both Don King and the WBA, indicating that Hunter’s legal troubles and his commitment to fight Miller were never properly considered. “After months of dispute and uncertainty, justice has prevailed,” Epic Sports stated.
The firm highlighted that the WBA had granted promotion rights for Pulev’s mandatory title defense to King, despite Epic’s objections concerning Hunter’s legal situation.
Reactions and Future Plans
The fallout from these disputes led to the WBA retracting the purse bid, allowing Pulev the freedom to defend his title against any ranked challenger at his discretion. Ivaylo Gotzev, CEO of Epic Sports, expressed relief and satisfaction, stating that they had worked diligently to resolve the matter and could now focus on organizing a premier title defense for Pulev.
Pulev himself voiced his eagerness to defend his championship, stating, “I’ve waited patiently while this situation played out, and now the path is clear. I am ready to defend my belt with honor before the end of 2025.” He emphasized his commitment to delivering significant fights to boxing fans.
John Wirt, Chairman of Epic Sports, took aim at Don King for not heeding their prior concerns regarding the legality of the bouts involving Hunter. Wirt emphasized that Hunter’s existing commitment and legal issues meant that the WBA should not have proceeded with the Pulev purse bid.
Hunter’s Missed Opportunities
A further complication arose as Hunter’s scheduled fight with Miller also fell through, with Miller confirming on social media that their bout was off, leading to a disappointing outcome for Hunter. In trying to maintain his options, the heavyweight contender has now faced significant setbacks, missing out on both an exciting card in September and a chance at a title fight.
As the boxing world continues to grapple with its complex politics, Hunter finds himself without a match, while Pulev moves forward unencumbered, and Miller is left frustrated. The tumultuous landscape of heavyweight boxing politics once again puts the fighters themselves at risk, particularly Hunter, who is now left seeking opportunities amidst the fallout.
