Usyk's title of absolute world champion has been stripped from him: IBF makes official statement

The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has updated information on the current status of Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 11 KOs) and his IBF super-heavyweight title. The organization noted that it is still considering the Ukrainian's request to postpone the mandatory defense of the belt due to a rematch with Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs).

The IBF representative said this in an exclusive interview with World Boxing News. The decision in favor of our compatriot will allow him to retain the title of absolute world champion and put it up for a second fight with Fury.

"A decision on Usyk's request for an exception to the rules of mandatory defenses has not yet been made," the International Boxing Federation said.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, on May 18 in Riyadh, Usyk defeated Fury and became the owner of the WBA, WBO, IBF and WBC heavyweight belts.

On May 19, it became known that Usyk should only stay as absolute champion until June 1, 2024, as his mandatory IBF title defense against Filip Hrgovic is overdue.

Usyk's team officially filed a request to keep the title for a rematch with Fury.

On June 2, undefeated IBF interim champion Filip Hrgovic suffered a sensational defeat against British heavyweight Daniel Dubois (21-2, 20 KOs), which confused the organizers of the fight for the full IBF belt.

IBF President Daryl Peeples gave an evasive answer to a question about whether the full title will be on the line in the fight between former champion Anthony Joshua and Dubois.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!