By Osman Rodriguez
Junior welterweight Ajose Olusegun continues to be the odd man out. The undefeated fighter has remained as the mandatory challenger to the WBC championship. Despite several orders from the World Boxing Council, Ajose is unable to secure a shot a the champion. The current beltholder, Danny Garcia, will defend his title against Amir Khan on July 14th at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. It was recently revealed that Khan-Garcia will also have the WBA title at stake.
BoxingScene.com: Let’s get right into it. What are your thoughts on the WBC sanctioning the fight between Danny Garcia and Amir Khan for the world title?
Ajose: It’s frustrating to say the least. All these guys are scared to put their little protected babies in the ring with real fighters. I’ve earned the right to fight for a world title and Jose Sulaiman himself promised me that I would get my shot. Sulaiman isn’t a man of his word and the WBC is a joke. How can you be a legit organization without following your own rules? It’s sad to say but boxing is becoming like the WWE. Everything is staged.
BoxingScene.com: What is your promoter doing to get you your shot?
Ajose: I have no idea. I have nothing personal against Lou DiBella as he is a good person, but he should have took legal action with the WBC three fights ago when they denied me my chance to fight for the title. I’m sitting here waiting for my opportunity and I’m not getting it. My whole thing is if Lou can’t get it done, then he should release me and let me move on with my career. I can’t be sitting here waiting forever as I have to make a living and support my family and try to achieve my goals as a professional prize fighter. I know Lou is furious but he can’t do much when the WBC makes up the rules as they go. I don’t even know why boxing has sanctioning organizations because the No. 1 contenders don’t get their well deserved shot at the title most of the time. How can a sport thrive when the best aren’t fighting the best? The fans want to see two fighters putting it all on the line and it shouldn’t be a big deal how big your name is. It’s ridiculous how the politics of boxing is ruining the sport.
BoxingScene.com: How do you see yourself compared to the other champions and contenders in the 140 pound division?
Ajose: I’m the best! Until someone beats me then I say I’m the best in the junior welterweight division. If you want to prove me different, then let’s settle it in the ring.
BoxingScene.com: Any last works you want to say to the fans, promoters, fighters, media and managers?
Ajose: Just think how great boxing would be if the best fought the best. The fans are missing out on great fights! The networks need to recognize who the actions fighters are and put them on TV as much as possible. I know I bring an exciting style to the ring, and I should be rewarded with a TV date and a world title shot. All these fighters say they’ll step in the ring with anyone, but they never do for one reason or another. Most of these guys are scared to take the risk of putting their guy in with a real fighter. They don’t get it…who cares if they lose? If they fight their heart out and put up a gallant effort, then they will get another chance to shine. I’m going to stay hungry and keep my mind body and soul focused on winning fights. Eventually the cream rises to the top.