Oleksandr Usyk Vacates IBF Title as “Present” For Anthony Joshua And Daniel Dubois
Oleksandr Usyk (image via Top Rank Boxing / X)
By FCF Staff
Oleksandr Usyk will not be defending the IBF’s heavyweight title when he faces Tyson Fury for a second time, later this year.
Recently, the decorated boxer announced he has vacated the IBF title as a “present” for Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois. Joshua and Dubois are expected to fight on September 21st.
Usyk (22-0) became the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 2000 in May, by recording a decision win over Fury. The two are scheduled to rematch on December 21st.
The Ukrainian star still holds the WBA, WBC, and WBO championships. Usyk had initially, reportedly asked the IBF for an exception to hold the title until the rematch with Fury, rather than compete in mandatory defense prior.
