Noel Mikaelian Promises Revenge in Badou Jack Rematch: 'This Time, I’m Coming in Fully Prepared'

Jack stands firm: “There won’t be any questions this time”

Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs), 43, won the WBC title from Mikaelian by majority decision on May 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on the undercard of Canelo Álvarez vs. William Scull. Judges Pablo Gonzalez and Jose Manzur both scored the bout 115–113 for Jack, while Nobuto Ikehara had it even at 114–114.

Though CompuBox punch statistics leaned in Mikaelian’s favor, Jack maintains the victory was clear.

“My sights were set on a unification, but I’m glad I’m fighting him again,” Jack said. “This time there won’t be any questions when I beat him.”

The WBC’s complicated title shuffle

The rematch caps off months of dispute and procedural twists involving the WBC cruiserweight belt. Mikaelian originally won the vacant title by stopping Junior Makabu in November 2023 after the WBC made Jack “champion in recess.” But when Jack stepped in to replace an injured Ryan Rozicki in May, the WBC reversed roles reinstating Jack as active champion and downgrading Mikaelian back to recess status.

After Mikaelian’s appeal and ongoing negotiations collapsed, the WBC ordered a purse bid, ultimately won by Bash Boxing over Don King Promotions, to stage the rematch.

Rankings and stakes

Jack currently ranks No. 5 among cruiserweights in The Ring magazine ratings, while Mikaelian sits just one spot behind at No. 6. The winner will remain on course for a potential 2026 showdown with The Ring and IBF champion Jai Opetaia (28-0, 22 KOs).

For Mikaelian, however, December 13 isn’t just about rankings or redemption it’s about restoring what he sees as his rightful place atop the division.

“I’m coming back stronger,” he said. “This time, it’s not going to the judges.”