Gilberto Jesus Mendoza, president of the World Boxing Association (WBA) revealed at a press conference held in Panama on Tuesday, that the WBA is moving a main portion of the operation to Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia.

“We are expanding the WBA operations by moving the presidency to Medellin, while Panama will keep the WBA central office," he said.

“The reasons leading to this decision for those who are familiar, my daughter wants to study veterinary care at a renowned university in Antioquia. My mother visits the city a lot, and while organizing our 96th Convention, taking place from October 30 to November 2, we found that people have been very receptive and we also found some projects to promote boxing development,” said Mendoza.

For that reason the WBA offices in Panama will be restructured and will change location within the city. The new office address will be announced shortly for promoters, boxers and journalists who may need to visit.

“The operation model will vary, as I have been thinking for quite some time, and that I will present at our upcoming convention.  We must develop boxing, we have a big plan, but I do not want to get ahead of myself.  So, I invite you to accompany us in Medellin from October 30 to November 2, to get to know our plans and learn how we will develop them,” said Mendoza.

Mendoza also reiterated the heavyweight resolution for the mandatory fight between world champion Anthony Joshua and challenger Luis Ortiz.

Joshua, who plans to return in November, has his back against the wall because the IBF has also ordered him to make a mandatory defense, against Kubrat Pulev.

Mendoza is currently holding discussions with the International Boxing Federation to work out the issue with conflicting mandatory fights, to ensure they take place without affecting any of the boxers.

In addition, he repeated that the organization will continue eliminating titles to keep a single WBA champion in each division.