Unbelievable: Oleksandr Usyk Rewards Anthony Joshua with Surprise ‘Present’ Following Tyson Fury Triumph.
Usyk has given up his IBF heavyweight world title, only weeks after achieving undisputed status following his spectacular victory over Fury.
Oleksandr Usyk has relinquished his IBF title following his victory over Tyson Fury, which means it will be on the line when Anthony Joshua faces Daniel Dubois.
The Ukrainian became the first undisputed heavyweight champion in almost 25 years when he defeated Fury on points in their historic bout last month. Fury started well, but Usyk found a second wind in the fight and nearly knocked out the Brit, who lost for the first time in his professional career.
Usyk was anticipated to lose the IBF championship for failing to perform his required duties by facing Dubois in his next fight. Usyk will instead face Fury for the second time on December 21. In a social media video, Usyk stated: “Anthony and Daniel, I know the IBF title is important to you.” It is my gift to you on September 21. The world admires strength. Oleksandr Usyk, your friend and the world’s undisputed heavyweight champion.
Joshua will now attempt to become a three-time world champion when he meets fellow Brit Dubois at the national stadium later this year. He was first crowned ruler in 2016 when he demolished Charles Martin, only to lose his belts three years later to Andy Ruiz Jr – a defeat he avenged the same year.
Joshua lost his belts again in 2021, this time when he was outclassed by Usyk in London – and the Ukrainian followed up his victory with success in the rematch a year later. Dubois, meanwhile, has rebuilt his career impressively since losing to rival Joe Joyce in 2020 admit accusations he “quit” in the grudge fight.
He won his next four fights before being defeated by Usyk in the ninth round in Poland last year. Dubois rebounded against Jarrell Miller before defeating Filip Hrgovic in Saudi Arabia earlier this month to earn the interim IBF champion.
He and Joshua will now compete for the chance to be the full champion in September, at the top of a stacked program that is likely to include Joshua Buatsi vs. Willie Hutchinson.