Jamel Herring Willing to Vacate WBO Title Just a Week After Defending It – Here’s Why

Jamel Herring is one of the best super-featherweights in the world. The American champion has been a mainstay in the division for the last eight years, and has held the WBO super-featherweight title since 2019. 

Herring defended his title less than a week ago with a perfect display against Carl Frampton. The American dropped the Englishman twice and got the TKO victory to defend his belt. Unfortunately, may now have to vacate the belt.

The WBO champion spoke to BoxingScene and revealed his willingness to relinquish the gold. He said, “I’ll always be grateful to the WBO, but I’m at the point where I’m fighting for my own legacy. And if they take the title, I understand because Shakur has been patient and the WBO has been patient.”

Herring then pointed out the multiple postponements and delays in their bout and said he would understand if they stripped him of the belt. However, he claimed the prospect of fighting for the WBC and lineal title was too much to pass out on.

These comments showed the ambition and desire to create history on Herring’s part. Unfortunately for him, the only way he can do so is without the WBO belt.

READ: All You Need to Know About Carl Frampton and His Wife Christine Frampton

Jamel Herring explains why Oscar Valdez makes more sense than Shakur Stevenson

With his comments, the WBO champion made no secret of his desire to fight Valdez over Stevenson. However, it is not a case of Herring ducking Stevenson. The American explained why a bout with Valdez makes more sense.

The 23-2 boxer said Valdez beat the most dangerous guy in the division to get the WBC belt, and many consider him the best in the division. He added, “It’s nothing against Shakur. I’m a fan of Shakur. I think Shakur’s one of the best fighters out there. But when you look at resumes, you know, you’d have to say Oscar Valdez makes more sense right now.”

Therefore, these comments from Herring showed he is chasing legacy fights rather than protecting his title. And at 35, it makes sense that he wants to build his legacy before he leaves the sport. However, a fight against Valdez would certainly also be the hardest for Herring.

What do you make of these comments from Jamel Herring? Do you think he would do the right thing by vacating his title?

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