Josh Taylor has been ordered to provide medical evidence that he is actually injured after postponing his eagerly awaited rematch with Jack Catterall.
The WBO wrote to Taylor’s promoter Bob Arum on January 21 to request confirmation that the Tartan Tornado has torn a tendon in his foot, as stated by the 32-year-old.
Taylor’s is the WBO super lightweight champion and that title will be on the line in a second clash with Catterall.
The rematch was due to take place on March 4 in Glasgow, eleven months after Taylor won a controversial split points bout with the Englishman when he was then undisputed champion.
Taylor has already angrily denied suggestions that he is using the injury as an excuse to avoid the fight taking place and faces being stripped of his WBO belt if he does not provide evidence.
In a letter to Arum, the WBO said: “Mr Taylor is hereby ordered to submit within the next five days upon issuance of this notice.
“We require a detailed medical explanation of his injury, findings, and recovery prognosis.
“We also need his orthopaedic specialist’s opinion on when he will be physically and medically cleared to compete and return to active competition.
“Failure to comply with this order will result in Mr Taylor waiving all rights. His rights [as a champion] with the Committee proceeding per WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests.
“Lastly, the WBO World Championship Committee reserves its right to issue all necessary rulings, helpful and convenient to accomplish the purposes and policies.
“It’s intent of the WBO Rules and Regulations of World Championship Contests, including serving the best interests of the WBO Jr. Welterweight Division."
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