Michal Cieslak Praises Noel Mikaelian's Win, Ready To Be Rewarded With Next Shot
Anson Wainwright
Dec 21, 2025
1 min read
Michal Cieslak has praised Noel Mikaelian's hard-fought points win over Badou Jack to reclaim the WBC world cruiserweight title, but also told The Ring of why he's the deserving next in-line, rather than a mooted unification with Ring and IBF beltholde...
On Saturday night, Noel Mikaelian evened the score with Badou Jack to regain his WBC world cruiserweight title.
Now he's back at the top of the mountain, others are trying to get what he has. Front and center will be WBC interim titleholder Michał Cieslak, who claimed his position with a comprehensive fourth-round stoppage over Jean Pascal in Canada back on June 28.
"Mikaelian was calm, disciplined, and he executed his game plan well," Cieslak (28-2, 22 KOs) told The Ring. "Jack is a tough, experienced fighter, so beating him says a lot about Mikaelian's level. Respect to both men for a high-quality fight."
The 36-year-old Polish fighter, who is The Ring's No. 4-rated operator at 200 pounds, offered this message for the Armenian.
"Congratulations on your victory, showing a very solid performance," he said. "Enjoy the moment, but stay ready. A fight for the WBC world title is my only goal, No. 1. I'm 100 percent ready and I just can not wait."
Following Mikaelian's victory, rumours suggested he'd next face Ring and IBF champion Jai Opetaia in a unification. However, Cieslak hopes his own title shot isn't iced by that option.
"I left the last WBC convention in Bangkok with promises and hope that I would be the one to get my chance now," he continued. "I respect unification fights, but believe I've earned my position and am eady for my opportunity."
Jacek Szelagowski, vice president of Knockout Promotions is also keen for his countryman's efforts to be rewarded.
"I believe now is the right time for Michal's shot," Szelagowski added. "He's been patiently waiting, doing everything possible to prove his worth, both as a fighter and as a person.
"He's shown loyalty, dedication and respect for the sport and WBC, we believe this is his moment. He's earned it through hard work and we're confident that the opportunity is coming soon."
Questions and/or comments can be sent to Anson at elraincoat@live.co.uk and you can follow him on X@AnsonWainwr1ght
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