What Is The Status Of Alexander Besputin And The WBA Welterweight Title?

The WBA has decided to create an interesting situation when it comes to its welterweight title and division. It may come at the expense of others.

According to the sanctioning body, the WBA has stripped Alexander Besputin of the WBA (regular) Welterweight Title. This is after the Russian tested positive for Ligandrol, a banned substance. There will now be a three-man race to determine the true champion.

Boxing Scene went on to state that Yordenis Ugas and Abel Ramos will be fighting for the vacant title. The winner of that bout, in a location and date to be determined, will face off against Radzhab Butaev, the former contender. Butaev (12-1) lost to Besputin for the vacant belt back in November 2019.

Ugas (25-4) earned a shot at Shawn Porter for the WBC Welterweight TItle in March 2019. Losing via split decision, the 33-year-old went on to beat Omar Figueroa Jr. in July via unanimous decision. His last fight was in February, beating Mike Dallas Jr. via corner retirement. Ugas has been hoping to face some top competitors and prove he can fight for a title again.

Ramos (26-3-2) is on an eight-fight win streak. The 29-year-old last fought in February, beating Bryant Perrella via TKO. It was his 20th win via knockout.

Both Ugas (#1) and Ramos (#6) are ranked in the top ten by the WBA. As far as Butaev, it appears he will not be getting a tune-up fight before facing either of the two.