Simply the worst
SIMPLY the pioneers” is the tagline on the World Boxing Association (WBA) badge. It alludes to them being the best sanctioning body in existence because they’re the oldest sanctioning body in existence. After changing their name from the National Boxing Association (NBA), the first world heavyweight title fight staged under the jurisdiction of the WBA pitted champion Sonny Liston against challenger Muhammad Ali (then Cassius Clay) in 1964. What a terrific start to life for the new and improved sanctioning body, a dramatic coronation of a soon-to-be legend and a contest destined for immortality. Then, in a nod to their pioneering skills and knack for chaos, they stripped Ali for agreeing to rematch Liston and created an eight-man tournament to crown a new champion. Fast forward 58 years to 2022 and the…