Mikaela Mayer Vacates WBO Title, Aims for Undisputed Glory
Montreal, Canada – January 15, 2026 – Mikaela Mayer, the 2016 U.S. Olympian and reigning WBO welterweight champion, relinquished her WBO junior middleweight title to prioritize unifying the 147-pound division. The decision, announced by WBO president Gustavo Olivieri, came less than three months after Mayer defeated Mary Spencer in Montreal to claim the WBA, WBC, and WBO 154-pound belts. Mayer retained her WBO welterweight title and expressed optimism about her path to undisputed status.
Background and Career Highlights
Mayer, with a record of 22-2 and 5 knockouts, has been a dominant force in women’s boxing. She previously held titles at 130 pounds before losses to Alycia Baumgardner and Natasha Jonas. In 2025, Mayer was named Fighter of the Year by several outlets and was a top contender behind Elif Nur Turhan. Her recent victories include a dominant rematch win over Sandy Ryan in Las Vegas on March 29, 2025, and the October 29, 2025, triumph over Spencer. Mayer has emphasized her goal of unifying the welterweight division, which would require a single fight against Lauren Price, the unified WBA, WBC, and IBF champion set to defend her title in March.
Key Stats and Achievements
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Record | 22-2 (5 KOs) |
| Current Titles | WBO Welterweight (147 lbs) |
| Notable Wins | Defeated Sandy Ryan (2024 and 2025), Mary Spencer (2025) |
| 2025 Recognition | Fighter of the Year (multiple outlets) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mikaela Mayer vacate the WBO 154-pound title?
WBO rules prohibit champions from holding titles at multiple weights simultaneously. Mayer chose to focus on the welterweight division, where she aims to become undisputed champion.
Who is Lauren Price, and why is she key to Mayer’s goals?
Lauren Price is the unified WBA, WBC, and IBF welterweight champion with a 9-0 record and 2 knockouts. She is scheduled to defend her title in March, and defeating her would make Mayer undisputed at 147 pounds.
What are Mayer’s future plans?
Mayer is keeping her options open for her next fight, potentially targeting Oshae Jones, who holds the IBF 154-pound belt, or focusing on the welterweight unification.