Matchroom Boxing Chairman Eddie Hearn is calling for WBA Super World welterweight champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero to face Jack Catterall within 90 days. The move follows Catterall’s unanimous decision victory over Shakhram Giyasov at the Pyramids of Giza on May 23, 2026, where he secured the vacant WBA “regular” welterweight title. While the World Boxing Association (WBA) has mandated a 180-day window for the defense, Hearn believes the bout should happen much sooner to unify the “regular” and “super” portions of the 147-pound crown.
Hearn’s urgency stems from a desire to keep the momentum going for Jack Catterall (33-2, 14 KOs), who controlled the pace against Giyasov in Egypt. The promoter noted that Giyasov had already waited roughly seven months for his mandatory opportunity against Romero following the WBA’s initial order last October. By pushing for a 90-day turnaround, Hearn aims to prevent the welterweight division from stagnating further. Rolando Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) was elevated to “Super” champion status on May 22, 2026, despite not fighting since his June 2025 win over Ryan Garcia.
The proposed matchup would pit two fighters Hearn describes as “avoided” against one another. Catterall has remained active, though his record shows a split-decision loss to Arnold Barboza Jr. in February 2025 before his recent run of victories. His performance in Giza showed the same technical discipline seen in other high-level Matchroom bouts, such as the strategy Shane Mosley Jr. employed against Serhii Bohachuk. Catterall has already voiced his willingness to return to the gym next week to prepare for Romero.
Eddie Hearn rejects WBA 180-day timeline for Rolly Romero
The WBA officially ordered the winner of the Giza bout to face Rolando Romero within a maximum period of 180 days. However, Hearn made it clear on Saturday night that he views this timeframe as excessive. “We don’t need 180 days; 90 sounds better,” Hearn said. He credited both Catterall and Giyasov for taking the risk of fighting each other while holding mandatory positions with separate governing bodies — Catterall with the WBO and Giyasov with the WBA.
This aggressive scheduling could see the fight take place as early as August 2026. Hearn specifically thanked WBA President Gilberto Mendoza and Saudi advisor Turki Alalshikh for facilitating the Egypt event and the subsequent mandatory order. The goal is now to secure the “full portion” of the world championship for Catterall. Such a fast-tracked schedule is becoming more common as promoters look to capitalize on major international interest, similar to how Eddie Hearn updated the timeline for other potential mega-fights in the heavyweights.
Jack Catterall signals readiness for summer return
Jack Catterall described himself as the “happiest man in the world” following his victory at the Pyramids. Despite the grueling 12-round contest, Catterall reported no injuries and is eager to jump back into a training camp. His professional record, which includes 33 wins and zero stoppages, suggests a durability that could withstand a quick turnaround. “I feel good, I feel fresh,” Catterall stated. “So bring on Rolly, bring on whoever.”
Catterall’s experience against high-level southpaws and technical boxers has prepared him for the unique challenges posed by Romero. Though Catterall lost a controversial split decision to Josh Taylor in 2022, he later avenged that loss in May 2024. He has consistently fought 12-round distances, averaging 7.4 rounds per professional contest. This seasoned approach contrasts with Romero’s more explosive, knockout-heavy style, creating a compelling tactical clash for the 147-pound title.
Rolando Romero’s inactivity looms over mandated defense
Rolando Romero remains one of the most polarizing figures in the welterweight division due to his power and his recent inactivity. His last ring appearance was a unanimous decision victory over Ryan Garcia in Times Square on May 2, 2025. While he lost his super lightweight title to Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in March 2024, his later win over Garcia helped maintain his position in the WBA rankings. The WBA’s decision to name him “Super” champion just before the Giza event has placed him directly in Catterall’s path.
Romero carries a 76% knockout ratio, making him a significant threat to any opponent who lacks a disciplined defense. However, if the fight occurs within Hearn’s 90-day window, Romero will be entering the ring with over a year of ring rust. For Catterall, this provides a distinct advantage, as he has fought twice since November 2025. Much like the warning Errol Spence Jr faces regarding long layoffs, Romero must prove his timing remains sharp against an active challenger.
Logistics and broadcast outlook for Romero vs Catterall
While no venue has been confirmed for the potential unification, Matchroom Boxing typically utilizes DAZN PPV for major championship events in the UK and US. Given the involvement of Turki Alalshikh in the Giza bout, a return to the Middle East for this welterweight clash is a possibility. Catterall has also proven to be a significant draw in the UK, having headlined at the Manchester Arena and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The WBA’s role will be to ensure the terms of the mandatory are met. While the 180-day limit is the hard deadline, the organization typically permits fights to happen earlier if both camps reach an agreement. For Hearn, the objective is simple: secure the Super World title and consolidate Catterall’s position at the top of the 147-pound division. If Romero accepts the 90-day challenge, it would set the stage for one of the most significant welterweight fights of the summer.
