Hrgovic’s Manager Insists on IBF Title

Keith Connolly, manager of mandatory IBF heavyweight title challenger Filip Hrgovic (17-0, 14 KOs), explained why they are focused solely on ensuring the champion vacates the belt if he does not wish to defend it against Filip.

«Filip has been the mandatory challenger for many years.

Fury and Usyk agreed before the fight that the winner would vacate the title. If it’s not vacated by Saturday (exact date not specified), the agreement will be breached,» said Connolly.

Usyk became the undisputed champion on the night of May 19. After that, he must either begin negotiations to defend the IBF title against Hrgovic or start negotiations for a rematch with Tyson Fury, as stated in the contract. Given that Fury wants to have a second fight, Usyk cannot refuse, which means he could lose the belt.

At the same time, IBF President Daryl Peoples stated that a reigning champion can request an exception to any rule, which Usyk has done.