Jermall Charlo, the undefeated WBC middleweight champion, is facing ongoing mental health challenges, further delaying his return to the ring. Charlo, who holds a 33-0 record, has been a prominent figure in the boxing world, but recent reports suggest that his struggles with mental health have significantly impacted his career.
Charlo, like his twin brother Jermell, has experienced considerable setbacks in recent years. After taking a hiatus from the sport for over two years due to his mental health, Jermell Charlo made his return in 2023, defeating Jose Benavidez Jr. But after another period of inactivity, Jermall Charlo was stripped of his WBC middleweight title. Despite the setback, he remained in discussions for a high-profile fight with Canelo Álvarez. However, Canelo faced Jermell Charlo instead, and it seems unlikely that Jermall will secure a fight with the Mexican champion any time soon.
Charlo was rumored to be preparing for a bout with Thomas LaManna, scheduled for March 1, 2025, on the undercard of the Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach PPV event on Amazon Prime Video. However, LaManna has since stated that Charlo is unable to commit to the fight, citing ongoing health issues. Despite the setback, LaManna expressed understanding, acknowledging the importance of mental health.
“I’ve been locked in and training for what would have been one of my biggest fights to date against a former unified champion,” LaManna said. “Unfortunately, I was just made aware that he will not be ready, and the fight will no longer take place on that date. Whatever he’s going through, I actually understand. Life and mental health are real. He’s a great fighter, and I hope he gets back on track and we can share the ring in the near future.”
While Jermall Charlo remains sidelined, his twin brother, Jermell, has also been out of action since his loss to Canelo Álvarez in 2023. Jermell, who moved up two weight classes for the bout, was defeated in a one-sided unanimous decision. Following the loss, Jermell was stripped of his undisputed 154-pound titles, but he reportedly earned $20 million from the fight. Despite the financial windfall, Jermell has expressed his desire to return to the ring in 2025, aiming for high-profile opponents.
As for Jermall Charlo, the question remains whether he will return to the 154-pound division or remain at middleweight (160 pounds). A return to 154 could lead to a long-anticipated fight with Tim Tszyu, whom Charlo was initially scheduled to face before an injury caused Jermell to pull out of the fight. Since Tszyu’s loss of the WBO belt to Sebastian Fundora, a potential showdown with Charlo could now be for bragging rights in the division.
As both Charlo brothers aim to make an impact in 2025, the future of their careers is uncertain, with mental health issues continuing to cast a shadow over their progress. Fans and peers alike are hopeful that the Charlos will overcome these challenges and return to the ring soon.
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