The World Boxing Council wishes to recognize the career of the great boxer from the USA, Vernon Forrest.

Forrest has been associated with the WBC since 1997, when he became the WBC Continental Americas welterweight champion, then won the WBC-affiliated NABF championship, which he defended several times. He eventually became WBC welterweight world champion by beating Shane Mosley in dramatic fashion, then beat Mosley in the rematch.

Forrest became WBC super welterweight world champion by defeating Carlos Baldomir in 2007, then regained the title by defeating Sergio Mora in September 2008.

Vernon Forrest is a three-time WBC world champion and a champion outside the ring, as well, known for his efforts in support of the children and underprivileged persons in the world.

Unfortunately, Forrest has sustained an injury which is forcing him to stay away from the ring for some time.

The WBC is hereby naming Sergio Martinez as the undisputed WBC super welterweight champion of the world. Martinez is one of the most loyal fighters I have ever met as WBC President. Our dear Ruben Martinez, who passed away two years ago, fought with passion to bring the opportunity to Sergio and it was with a sensational victory over Alex Bunema that he won the WBC interim green and gold belt. He then defended the interim championship against Kermit Cintron, and is now regarded as a new sensation in boxing. I am sure that he will proudly represent the WBC.

Vernon Forrest has been unanimously voted as “WBC Ambassador of Peace and Good Will in the World Through Sports,” and will be eligible to compete for the WBC championship as soon as he recovers from his injury with a 55-45 purse split against Martinez.

I am very happy for Sergio Martinez, and very honored to have Vernon Forrest as an Ambassador. I am confident that Forrest will heal very soon and compete again for the WBC championship.