The World Boxing Council (WBC) announced that Lester Martinez will face Immanuwel Aleem for the vacant WBC interim super middleweight (72.6kg) world title on March 21 in California, United States.
"The undefeated Martinez will face a tough test against Aleem, who is renowned for his technical prowess and experience fighting high-level opponents," the WBC said on its official website, as monitored.
The WBC interim super-middleweight title was previously held by Christian Mbilli. The French boxer was then promoted to full WBC world champion, making the interim belt automatically vacant in January 2026.
The decision came after former world champion Terence Crawford was stripped of his title by the WBC for failing to pay sanctioning fees for several of his fights, including against Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez.
With the change in the championship structure, the WBC then established an interim belt fight as part of an effort to keep competition active in the super middleweight division.
Now, the vacant interim title will be contested by Martinez and Aleem in what is expected to be a fierce fight. Both boxers have ambitious ambitions to solidify their positions among the world's elite in the 168-pound division.
Martínez has established himself as one of the most promising young stars in Central American boxing, boasting a record of 19 wins and 16 knockouts. This impressive record has made him a household name on the international boxing scene.
Blessed with an aggressive fighting style and a high knockout percentage, the Guatemalan fighter continues to build his reputation as a serious contender in the super middleweight division. His consistent performances in recent fights have also seen him climb the world rankings.
