Oleksandr Usyk, the 37-year-old Ukrainian fighter who became the undisputed heavyweight boxing champion of the world just weeks ago, has announced that he will vacate his IBF title. This decision comes as a result of Usyk’s obligation to defend his IBF crown against interim champion and mandatory challenger Daniel Dubois. However, since Usyk is unable to do so at this time, Dubois’ anticipated fight against Anthony Joshua at Wembley in September could potentially be for the vacant IBF title.
In a video posted on social media, Usyk addressed both Joshua and Dubois, saying “I know the IBF title is important to you. It is my present to you on September 21.” This marks the first time since 1999 that a fighter has unified all four major heavyweight belts. Lennox Lewis held three belts at the time, making history as the last fighter to do so before Usyk’s monumental achievement.
