New boxing weight class approved in Britain to bridge biggest gap in divisions

The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) has approved a new weight class named light cruiserweight, scheduled to come into effect on January 1, 2027. The division sets a championship limit of 187 pounds to bridge the 25-pound gap between light heavyweight (175 pounds) and cruiserweight (200 pounds). It will be contested across Area, English, Celtic, and British title bouts.

The initiative was introduced to BBBofC General Secretary Robert Smith by coach and promoter Pat Barrett, earning backing from trainers including Adam Booth, Jamie Moore, Andy Lee, Robert McCracken, and Joe Gallagher. None of the four major sanctioning bodies currently recognize the division, though Gallagher previously proposed it to the WBC.