Badou Jack Vs Noel Mikaelian II: WBC Demands Justice After Disputed Bout

Badou Jack Vs Noel Mikaelian II: WBC Demands Justice After Disputed Bout originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The controversial fight for the Cruiserweight title, where Jack won via a 12-round majority decision in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, happened on May 5, 2025.

In a closely contested bout, Jack retained his title with judges scoring the fight 115-113, 115-113, and 114-114. However, many observers and unofficial scorecards favored Mikaelian, highlighting the contentious nature of the decision.

Jack was fighting for the first time since winning the WBC title in February 2023, and Mikaelian for the first time since winning the same, then-vacated WBC title in November 2023. Mikaelian expressed confidence in his performance, and the WBC champion in recess was certain he’d done enough to have beaten Jack. “The world knows I won the first fight; that's why I'm getting the rematch," said Mikaelian on The Ring.

He and his team filed a protest soon after the decision was announced in Jack’s favor. Following Mikaelian's protest, the WBC reviewed the fight and determined that an immediate rematch was warranted. Now, the two sides have until July 1 to reach a deal. If no agreement is made, a purse bid will be conducted to determine the terms of the bout.

The upcoming rematch is poised to settle the dispute over the cruiserweight title definitively. Both fighters are expected to enter the ring with renewed determination, aiming to prove their superiority in the division.

“Good, I thought Noel won the fight as well,” said a fan on X. “I thought Jack did enough, but ok, I do feel bad for him; he can’t catch a break,” said another on X. As the July deadline approaches, the boxing world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this high-stakes rivalry.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 5, 2025, where it first appeared.