The next fight of SES cruiserweight Roman Fress had to be postponed due to an injury to his opponent. However, it is unclear whether this duel will be for an interim world championship.
The fight between Roman Fress (23-1, 13 knockouts) and Tommy Punch (23-0, 15 knockouts) scheduled for March 7 at Messe Magdeburg has had to be postponed due to injury. The new date for the event is May 30, 2026, with the venue for the cruiserweight clash remaining Messe Magdeburg, according to promoter SES Boxing.
Will WBO withdraw interim world championship?
The reason for the change of date is an injury suffered by Tommy Punch (Tahir Kahrovic) in sparring. From a medical point of view, the injury to the 29-year-old from Wiesbaden does not currently allow for optimal preparation. However, it is still unclear whether Fress vs. Punch on May 30 will be for an interim WBO world championship.
Initially, the German-German duel was declared as such. However, now that WBO champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez is supposedly planning to defend his belt against David Benavidez on May 2, the WBO is said to have canceled the interim world championship. It is said that the association no longer sees any reason for this after Ramirez’ return. This version has not yet been officially confirmed.
Irrespective of this, the Magdeburg promotion intends to stick to May 30. The fight between the 31-year-old Fress and his challenger will remain the central element of the next SES Boxing Gala . Note from the promoter to all ticket holders: Tickets purchased to date for the SES Boxing Gala on 7 March will remain valid for 30 May 2026.
Text: Frank Schwantes