In a significant development in the world of boxing, Oleksandr Usyk has announced that he will vacate his IBF title, just weeks after achieving the status of undisputed heavyweight world champion.
The 37-year-old Ukrainian boxer made history last month by becoming the first heavyweight to simultaneously hold the IBF, WBO, WBA, and WBC belts, after defeating Tyson Fury in a split decision match in Saudi Arabia.
However, Usyk is now contracted for a rematch with Britain’s Tyson Fury, which prevents him from defending his IBF title against the interim champion and mandatory challenger, Daniel Dubois. Consequently, the IBF title will be vacated.
This decision paves the way for Dubois to potentially face Anthony Joshua in an all-British showdown at Wembley in September, with the vacant IBF title on the line.
Usyk addressed the situation in a video posted on social media, saying: “Anthony and Daniel, listen. I know the IBF title is important to you. It is my present to you on September 21.”
The last heavyweight to unify the major belts—three at the time—was Britain’s Lennox Lewis in 1999, prior to Usyk’s recent accomplishment.
As the boxing community reacts to Usyk’s decision, the potential Joshua vs. Dubois fight for the vacant IBF title adds another layer of excitement to the heavyweight division.
