Under the revised language, interim titles would still be allowed, but only in specific situations. Those include injury or illness to the reigning champion, a refusal or inability to defend the title, or circumstances outside the boxer’s control, such as travel restrictions.
Supporters of the amendment say the goal is consistency in how championships are defined and recognized. The proposal would narrow title designations while keeping flexibility for unavoidable disruptions.
The timing of the change comes as new promotional models enter the sport. Zuffa Boxing is scheduled to launch its first event Friday night on Paramount Plus, with company leadership signaling it plans to operate independently of traditional sanctioning bodies. The bill’s backers see clearer federal standards as a way to reduce uncertainty during that transition.
The WBO said it already follows similar guidelines. President Gustavo Olivieri said limiting titles strengthens the standing of a full champion and reduces confusion among fighters and fans. He said secondary and interim titles beneath a full champion can weaken credibility for both the titleholder and the organization.
The WBC said it will review the legislation and comply with any federal rules that are adopted. President Mauricio Sulaiman said the organization respects U.S. law and the authority of local commissions where WBC title fights are held.
Discussion around sanctioning fees has also drawn attention in recent weeks. Terence Crawford was stripped of his WBC title last month after declining to pay a sanctioning fee tied to a major purse. Crawford later criticized the fee publicly.
In addition to the championship structure, lawmakers approved several amendments focused on boxer protections. The bill would raise the proposed minimum per round payment from 150 dollars to 200 dollars. It would also increase minimum medical coverage from 25 thousand dollars to 50 thousand dollars and update timelines for required medical testing, including eye exams, bloodwork, and brain health evaluations.
Amendments introduced by Representative Ilhan Omar would limit boxer contracts to six years, allow fighters to contact other promoters or unified boxing organizations 30 days before a contract expires, and guarantee compensation if a boxer goes six months without being scheduled for a bout.
In a statement following the vote, Representative Brian Jack said the amendments strengthened bipartisan support and moved the legislation closer to becoming the first major update to federal boxing law in more than 25 years.
The bill will now be considered by the full House of Representatives.
