Two-time Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez saw his return to professional boxing collapse on Friday after a dispute over medical documentation led to the sudden cancellation of his bout against Asror Vohidov in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The former featherweight champion is now publicly accusing the World Boxing Council (WBC) and promoter Pat Ricco of mishandling his medical clearance, claiming his fight was scrapped despite his efforts to provide the necessary scans. The bout was scheduled for May 29, 2026, and would have been his first appearance in the ring since December 2024.
Robeisy Ramirez (14-3, 9 KOs) has been inactive for approximately 17 months following a sixth-round stoppage loss to Rafael Espinoza. That December 2024 defeat cost him his world title and resulted in an eye injury that sidelined the 32-year-old Cuban standout. While other fighters in the division are staying active, with reports that Shakhram Giyasov may contest a vacant strap soon, Ramirez remains in a professional limbo that has now been extended by this administrative fallout.
According to Robeisy Ramirez, the conflict involves the timing and classification of neurological imaging. He stated on social media that he visited an emergency room at 9:00 p.m. on the night before the fight to obtain an MRI, but the WBC and promoter Pat Ricco allegedly claimed he had only received a CT scan. The distinction is vital for safety protocols, yet Ramirez insists he paid for a second MRI on Friday morning to satisfy requirements, only for it to be rejected for being late by “a couple hours.”
Robeisy Ramirez appeals directly to Mauricio Sulaiman over medical dispute
The frustration from the Ramirez camp escalated as the fighter directed a public challenge to WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman. During a call involving his attorney, Ramirez disputed the “supposedly” late scan and urged the executive to intervene personally. “Mauricio, you say you look out for fighters. Prove it,” Ramirez posted on social media. “Do right by boxing. Do right by me.”
The cancellation highlights the rigid nature of sanctioning body deadlines, sometimes more complex than the contract disputes that stall major bouts in Europe or North America. The WBC often enforces strict medical windows for athletes returning from stoppage losses involving head trauma. However, Ramirez argues that the refusal to accept the results he personally funded has cost him a long-awaited comeback opportunity.
This administrative setback marks another chapter in a turbulent year for the Cuban star. In early 2026, Robeisy Ramirez ended his partnership with longtime trainer Ismael Salas and left Top Rank to become a promotional free agent. Without the backing of a major company, navigating international logistics and regulatory hurdles has seemingly become more difficult for the former champion.
Future of the two-time Olympic gold medalist remains uncertain after layoff
The collapse of the Tashkent event leaves Robeisy Ramirez without a clear path forward in a competitive featherweight landscape. While heavyweight veterans like Andy Ruiz Jr. are reportedly nearing a comeback, Ramirez must now secure a new promotional agreement or an independent date to end his layoff. The 17-month absence has already impacted his momentum following his title loss to Espinoza.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) has not provided an official explanation for the late-stage cancellation as of Friday evening. Typically, the body maintains that medical protocols are non-negotiable to ensure fighter safety, particularly in foreign jurisdictions. For now, the event in Uzbekistan proceeds without the Cuban star, who is left calling for a review of the circumstances that derailed his return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Robeisy Ramirez vs Asror Vohidov fight canceled?
The fight was canceled in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, due to a dispute over medical clearance. Robeisy Ramirez alleged that the WBC and promoter Pat Ricco refused to accept his MRI results because they were submitted a few hours late, despite Ramirez claiming he paid for the tests personally after a previous scan was misidentified.
When did Robeisy Ramirez last fight in a professional match?
Robeisy Ramirez last fought in December 2024, where he suffered a sixth-round stoppage loss to Rafael Espinoza. That match resulted in an eye injury for Ramirez, leading to a 17-month period of inactivity that was expected to end with the May 2026 bout in Uzbekistan.
Is Robeisy Ramirez still signed with Top Rank?
No, Robeisy Ramirez is no longer signed with Top Rank. He is currently a promotional free agent and has also ended his professional relationship with his longtime trainer, Ismael Salas, as he attempts to rebuild his career independently.
