June 25th 2024.
Oleksandr Usyk, the undefeated Ukrainian boxer, has made a major announcement that has shocked the world of heavyweight boxing. He has decided to relinquish his IBF title, which means he is no longer the undisputed champion in the division. This news comes just five weeks after his historic victory over Tyson Fury, where he became the first sole world champion in the heavyweight division since Lennox Lewis 25 years ago.
In May, Usyk secured a split decision points victory over Fury in a thrilling fight in Saudi Arabia. This added the WBC crown to his collection, making him the holder of the WBO, WBA, and IBF belts. However, with a rematch between Fury and Usyk already confirmed for December, it was expected that one of the titles would have to be vacated. And on Tuesday, Usyk made it official by announcing his decision to give up the IBF belt.
This means that the upcoming rematch between Fury and Usyk will not be for all four belts. Instead, the IBF title is now expected to be on the line when Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois fight on September 21st. This is due to a prior agreement that the winner of the Fury-Usyk fight would have to vacate the IBF title or face the mandatory challenger. And with a rematch already set, it was expected that Usyk would give up the belt.
On Wednesday, it is expected that Joshua and Dubois will officially confirm their fight for the vacant IBF title. The highly-anticipated match is set to take place at Wembley Stadium this autumn, with Dubois as the mandatory challenger after his victory over Filip Hrgovic in May. Joshua, a former two-time world champion, will be looking to reclaim his title and become a three-time champion.
In a video clip shared on social media on Wednesday night, Usyk addressed Joshua and Dubois directly, saying, "Anthony and Daniel, I know the IBF title is important to you. It is my present to you on 21 September." This statement from Usyk shows his respect for his fellow boxers and his willingness to give them the opportunity to fight for the belt.
Usyk has already proven himself as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division, with impressive victories over both Joshua and Dubois. He won his world titles with a masterful performance against Joshua in September 2021, and then defended them in style a year later. In his most recent title defence, Usyk stopped Dubois in the ninth round of their fight in Poland.
Although Usyk has decided to give up his IBF title, he remains a formidable opponent and a major player in the heavyweight division. His decision has opened up new opportunities for other boxers, and the upcoming fights for the vacant belt are sure to be exciting and highly anticipated. Only time will tell if Usyk can continue his reign as one of the top boxers in the world.
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