Usyk Files Petition to Keep IBF Title

According to Boxing Scene journalist Lance Pugmire, International Boxing Federation (IBF) president Daryl Peoples has confirmed that undisputed heavyweight champion (over 90.7 kg) Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) has requested an exception to retain the IBF title.

Usyk faces the possibility of being stripped of the IBF title due to the inability to make a mandatory defense against challenger Filip Hrgović. Usyk’s promoter, Alexander Krassyuk, has stated that the team will request an exception from the IBF to keep the belt.

On the night of May 19, Oleksandr Usyk defeated Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) by split decision to become the undisputed heavyweight champion. Usyk is the first undisputed champion in this division since November 13, 1999, when Lennox Lewis defeated Evander Holyfield in a rematch.