UNDEFEATED boxing champion Josh Taylor has vacated his WBC world title as he looks set for a rematch with Jack Catterall.

The Prestonpans fighter had been due to square off against Jose Zepeda but has opted to relinquish one of his three world titles, which should clear the path for the first rematch of his career.

The boxing organisation released a statement on Friday saying: “The WBC has just received a letter from Josh Taylor’s attorney in which he confirms his decision to relinquish the WBC super lightweight championship.

“The WBC truly regrets having lost so much time and having mandatory contender Jose Zepeda frozen, as well as other fighters in the division.

“We wish Josh Taylor success in his future inside and outside the ring.

“The WBC hereby orders Jose Zepeda vs Jose Carlos Ramirez fight for the vacant super lightweight championship of the world.”

Zepeda, from California, has a record of 35-2 and will face off against Ramirez, who Taylor defeated to unify the division in May last year.

Taylor, 31, took to social media following the announcement.

He said: “I’ve got massive respect for the WBC and want to thank them for everything they have done for me.

“At this moment, I would not be able to commit to this defence so soon after getting married.

“I hope to be able to compete for a WBC title again in the future when the time is right.

“I wish all the best to Zepeda and Ramirez in competing for this title.”

Taylor and Catterall faced each other in Glasgow in February, with both men coming into the bout with undefeated records.

Catterall, from Chorley, thought he had done enough to win the fight but the judges gave a split decision in favour of the East Lothian fighter.

Former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Taylor previously relinquished the WBA world title but still holds the IBF and WBO versions of the belt.