Oleksandr Usyk Vacates IBF Belt, Paving the Way for Joshua vs. Dubois Showdown

Oleksandr Usyk, the undefeated Ukrainian heavyweight star, has announced his decision to vacate his IBF belt. This move marks a significant moment in boxing, as Usyk is the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era. 

Usyk’s decision, revealed on Tuesday, opens the door for a potential clash between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois for the now-vacant title. The bout is rumored to take place at Wembley Stadium in London on September 21, although it is yet to be officially confirmed.

In a statement to Joshua and Dubois, Usyk said, “Anthony and Daniel, listen, I know the IBF title is important to you. [Call] it my present to you on September 21.”

Despite vacating the IBF belt, Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC, and WBO titles. His dominance in the heavyweight division was solidified when he added the WBC title to his collection in May, following a thrilling split decision victory over the previously undefeated Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The two titans are already set for a rematch on December 21 in Riyadh.

Usyk’s decision to vacate the IBF belt comes after being granted an exemption by the IBF to retain his title while awaiting his rematch with Fury. However, with the looming risk of the IBF stripping him of the title, Usyk chose to relinquish it on his own terms.

The potential fight between Joshua and Dubois promises to be an exciting showdown, with both fighters eager to settle scores with Usyk. Usyk defeated Dubois by knockout in August 2023 and holds two decision wins over Joshua. For Joshua and Dubois, a victory in September could set the stage for a future bout with Usyk, adding another chapter to their respective rivalries with the Ukrainian champion.

As the boxing world watches closely, the stage is set for an electrifying series of events in the heavyweight division, beginning with the anticipated Joshua vs. Dubois clash and culminating in the high-stakes rematch between Usyk and Fury.