Raymond Muratalla Elevated to Full IBF Lightweight Champion

The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has officially promoted Raymond Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) from interim to full world champion in the Lightweight division (up to 61.2 kg). This decision comes after Vasiliy Lomachenko announced his retirement from professional boxing.

Muratalla secured the interim belt on May 10, when he defeated Zaur Abdullaev by unanimous decision. With the title now vacant, the IBF moved to recognize the undefeated American as its new world champion.

Looking ahead, Muratalla is expected to face the winner of the June 14 eliminator between Andy Cruz and Hironori Mishiro, which will determine the IBF’s mandatory challenger. That bout will take place at Madison Square Garden Theater in New York.

The Lightweight division now has a new leader — and his first test as champion is already on the horizon.