By Ben Jacobs

The World Boxing Association [WBA] announced earlier today that a rematch must take place between their bantamweight champion Jamie McDonnell (29-2-1, 13 KOs) and Liborio Solís (25-5-1, 11 KOs). 

The Championship Committee reviewed a request by Solís’ manager and considered that a rematch was necessary.  Both parties have 30 days to come to an agreement or a purse bid will be called.  If a purse bid is indeed called, McDonnell as the champion would receive 75% of the purse with 25% for Solís as the challenger.

The first fight in Monaco last November caused some controversy as although the judges turned in cards of 116-112, 115-113 and 117-11 in McDonnell’s favour, many fans and journalists watching felt that the Venezuelan had done enough to secure the victory.

Solís contacted BoxingScene.com following the release of this news to send a message to his rival from Yorkshire.

“I’m going to put everything into this rematch, I want Jamie McDonnell to see this message. 

“I’m going to take back what belongs to me, that belt is mine,” Liborio claimed. 

“That belt was unfairly denied to me.  If he wants to keep it this time he’s going to have to prove that he can beat me.  If not, I will beat him again, as long as the judges don’t do something crazy again.  I hope he prepares well.”

Unperturbed at the prospect of fighting in the United Kingdom, the Panama-based pugilist vowed that he would fight the return bout in any location.

“I would fight him in his own garden and his family members can be the judges and the referee.  Everyone saw on November 12 that he didn’t beat me. 
“I’m going to put everything into this.”