Oleksandr Usyk, the unbeaten Ukrainian boxer, has officially vacated his IBF heavyweight title, clearing the path for a potential showdown between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois for the now-vacant belt. This decision underscores Usyk’s position as the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era, having little left to prove in the sport.
Usyk’s move opens opportunities for Joshua and Dubois, who are rumored to be in talks for a clash at Wembley Stadium in London on September 21. Although this matchup isn’t confirmed, Usyk has extended his best wishes, stating, “Anthony and Daniel, listen, I know the IBF title is important to you. Consider it my present to you on September 21.”
Despite relinquishing the IBF title, Usyk remains the holder of the WBA, WBC, and WBO belts. He secured the WBC heavyweight title in May after a thrilling split decision victory over the previously undefeated Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The two fighters are scheduled for a highly anticipated rematch in Riyadh on December 21.
Previously, Usyk was granted an exemption by the IBF, allowing him to retain the title while preparing for his rematch with Fury. However, facing the possibility of the IBF stripping him of the belt, Usyk chose to vacate it preemptively.
If Joshua and Dubois face off as expected, a future bout against Usyk could be in the cards. Both fighters have unfinished business with Usyk