Canadian cruiserweight Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1-1, 19 KOs) has officially pulled out of his May 3 world title clash against WBC Cruiserweight Champion Badou Jack (20-1-1, 13 KOs) due to a torn bicep sustained during training camp.
The anticipated matchup was set to take place on the Riyadh Season card in Saudi Arabia, headlined by Saul “Canelo” Alvarez vs. William Scull for the Unified Super Middleweight Championship.
Rozicki: “I’ll Be Back — That WBC Title Will Be Mine”
Rozicki, 30, confirmed the injury and expressed both disappointment and determination in a statement:
“I’m going to be taking this time to rebuild my body and deal with the damage I did to it in the last 15 years of battles. I just turned 30, so I’m far from finished. I will be back, that WBC title will be mine.
All the best to the champion, Badou Jack. I wish you nothing but the best in defending your world title. I will be rooting for you, champ.”
Promoter Dan Otter: “It Just Adds to the Story”
Rozicki’s longtime promoter Dan Otter (Three Lions Promotions) also acknowledged the setback, while reinforcing their long-term belief in Rozicki’s championship future:
“If there was no bad luck, we’d have no luck at all when it comes to this WBC world title quest. In the end, it just adds more to the story. Rozicki will be world champion. It’s his destiny.”
Rozicki’s Status and Future
Rozicki has been the WBC’s No. 1 contender and mandatory challenger since 2023. His injury is expected to sideline him for several months, delaying what many believed would be the toughest and most important fight of his career.
At this time, Badou Jack is still expected to remain on the May 3rd card, though a new opponent has not yet been announced.
People dont understand how hard it is to train and fight. Rozicki might be hurt but that doesent mean he wont come back stronger! Injury can be a sign of growth, so stop hatin! 💪🏽
I think Rozicki is just making excuses for not fighting. Injuries are part of the game, and if he realy wanted that title, he shouldve found a way to push through it. 😒 Champions don’t back down!
Oh, the agony! A champion brought low by a cruel twist of fate! Ryan, the heart of a lion, torn yet unbroken. The WBC title shall not elude your grasp forever! Rise from the ashes like a phoenix, for destiny awaits you in the ring. Badou Jack may reign now, but your time will come. Until then, heal and prepare, for the world will remember your name!
Oh wow, a torn bicep? What a shocker! I mean, who would have thought that training hard could lead to injuries? Really groundbreaking stuff here. And don’t worry, Ryan, I’m sure the WBC title will magically wait for you while you ‘rebuild your body.’ Can’t wait to see you come back stronger… or just more injured!