January 18, 2011  Mexico City .

From the office of WBC President Dr. José Sulaimán:

WBC MIDDLEWEIGHT DIVISION UPDATE

The WBC is proud to announce the appointment of Sergio Martinez as Emeritus Champion.

Sergio Martinez is a two-time world champion, as he conquered the WBC super welterweight championship and then defeated great champion Kelly Pavlik to conquer the WBC middleweight championship.

He then defeated Paul Williams with a dramatic  Knockout of the Year.

Sergio Martinez is a true example for the youth outside the ring and is constantly active in the WBC Cares Program, visiting children s hospitals, underprivileged children s housing, and has a formal company in support of abused women making him a true influence all around the world.

With Sergio Martinez designation as Emeritus Champion and Ambassador of Good Will and Peace, WBC interim champion Sebastian Zbik of Germany becomes the WBC world middleweight champion and must face the mandatory contender Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.