A Champion with a Chess Master's Mind: Mikaelyan Eyes Unification

While Henrikh Mkhitaryan has long been known as one of the most prominent Armenian polyglots in global sport, boxing has gained a new star with the same “gift for languages” — WBC cruiserweight world champion Noel Mikaelyan.

On February 5 in Mexico, Mikaelyan held an official press conference and received his championship ring and the legendary green-and-gold WBC belt from the organization’s president Mauricio Sulaiman. The ceremony took place in the heart of Tepito — a legendary boxing neighborhood that gave rise to icons like Raul "Ratón" Macias and Ruben "Puas" Olivares.

The Polyglot in Gloves

The official WBC website praised not only the champion's athletic achievements but also his linguistic talents. Mikaelyan speaks Armenian, German, French, Russian, and English. In Tepito, he surprised the locals by switching to Spanish to thank Mexico for its warm hospitality.

Thus, Armenian sport has gained another bright international representative — now in the ring.

Path to Undisputed

Mikaelyan clearly declared his goal: to become the undisputed champion.

“We are aiming to unify the titles, so we want to fight Jai Opetaia or another champion. Boxing is 90% mental. I know I can beat him, and it will be the toughest fight of his career. Title unification is what the fans want and what the division needs.”

The champion emphasized he is in peak form:

“In heavier weight classes, you mature later, and now I’m at my best. Boxing is like chess — it’s more about outsmarting your opponent than just brute strength.”

Second Rise to the Top

Nicknamed “The Dark Horse,” Mikaelyan became a two-time WBC champion after reclaiming the title in December 2025. In a rematch, he convincingly defeated Badou Jack. Their first bout was dramatic — Mikaelyan stepped in last-minute to replace injured Ryan Rozicki and narrowly lost.

Now, he not only reclaimed the belt but did so confidently — receiving the symbols of championship in one of boxing’s most iconic locations.

A Belt with Legacy

Mikaelyan emphasized the prestige of the WBC title:

“I’m proud to have achieved something very few can. The WBC belt is the most prestigious and historic — it’s been held by greats like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. Being WBC champion is something truly special.”

His manager Anthony Girges added that the team is determined to hold the belt as long as possible and pursue undisputed status.

A new era may be dawning in cruiserweight — and the Armenian flag will be flying high. After all, Armenians have long been a presence in the division: fellow Armenian Arsen Goulamirian held the WBA title from 2019 to 2024.