WBC sanctions ‘direct rematch’ between Fury and Wilder

Tyson Fury has been granted approval for a “direct rematch” with WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.

British fighter Fury and American Wilder shared a controversial and thrilling draw in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The contest sparked immediate calls for a second fight, including from Fury’s promoter Frank Warren.

A vote by the World Boxing Council’s board of governors has resulted in a “unanimous agreement” to sanction a rematch.

“Wilder and Fury gave boxing one of the best fights in the heavyweight division in a long time, which has created tremendous popular demand for the fans to see a rematch,” reads a statement on the governing body’s website.

“The WBC is happy to confirm that a direct rematch has been approved and will create in a ruling which will also consider the mandatory status of the division.

“I wish to once again congratulate Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury for their great battle inside the ring and for the exemplary sportsmanship after the bout.”

Manchester-born Fury, 30, was denied one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history after scores of 115-111, 112-114 and 113-113 over the weekend.

He impressively out-boxed his opponent, although 33-year-old Wilder retained the title having knocked Fury down in the ninth round, and again in the 12th.