From WBC President Jose Sulaiman:
“The World Boxing Council is deeply concerned about the fight between Roy Jones Jr. and Antonio Tarver, scheduled for October 1 in Tampa, Florida, if Roy refuses to undergo a thorough neurological examination after the knockouts he suffered in his two last bouts.
“Roy Jones Jr. has been one of the greatest light heavyweight champions in the history of boxing, and he certainly has a sound financial position that enables him to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle for the rest of his life. Consequently, he should not allow his own pride to push him to risk his health and even his life.
“Roy has been and continues to be a source of pride to the World Boxing Council and a close personal friend of mine, as well, which is the reason why I would like to strongly emphasize that he should undergo a thorough neurological exam and receive the corresponding medical approval to eliminate any doubts regarding any unnecessary risk to his health, especially at this time in which we have been witnessing accidents probably caused by the athletes straining beyond their own human endurance.”