By Hilmar Rojas

Due to the impossibility of defending his interim-belt at super featherweight, the World Boxing Association's Championships Committee has stripped Mexican contender Emanuel Lopez (19-4-1, 8KOs).

"El Pollo" Lopez and his team were informed of the decision based on the regulations, based on their presumed knowledge of specific rules where Lopez had to defend in a period not exceeding 180 days.

The Mexican fighter is caught in a legal dispute between manager and promoter, and both sides claim to be authorized to negotiate Lopez's fights.

Despite the order of the WBA, Lopez has not defended nor has he scheduled a fight against his mandatory challenger Jazreel Corrales of Panama. Now, Lopez is claiming an injury that prevents him from defending the title.

Consequently, the Panamanian Corrales will have the option of fighting for the interim belt with the highest rated available contender.

Lopez may again opt to fight for the title or fall under consideration when he fully recovers from his injury, and resolves his legal problems.