The recent news of Oleksandr Usyk being stripped of the IBF heavyweight belt has sent shockwaves through the boxing world. This decision comes hot on the heels of Usyk’s historic victory over Tyson Fury, where he became the first four-belt heavyweight title holder in the sport’s history. The reason behind this stripping is due to Usyk’s contractual obligation to have a rematch with Fury, effectively denying IBF mandatory challenger Filip Hrgovic a chance to compete for the belt.
Former boxer Tony Bellew took to social media to express his frustration over Usyk’s imminent loss of the IBF belt. Bellew articulated his disdain for the decision, questioning why the undisputed heavyweight champion should have to vacate his title. Many share Bellew’s sentiments, labeling the politics of boxing as infuriating, preventing fighters from proving their worth in the ring.
While Filip Hrgovic is undoubtedly a skilled fighter deserving of a title shot, questions arise about the legitimacy of winning the IBF belt without facing Usyk in the ring. Hrgovic’s upcoming fight with Daniel Dubois for the vacant belt raises speculation about the true champion in the heavyweight division. Would Hrgovic be content with claiming the title under such circumstances, or does he have his sights set on a showdown with Usyk for undisputed supremacy?
The situation mirrors the events of the past when Tyson Fury faced a similar predicament after defeating Wladimir Klitschko. Fury was stripped of the IBF title for failing to defend it against the mandatory challenger due to rematch obligations. Now, Usyk finds himself in the same position, highlighting the recurring themes of politics and contractual obligations in boxing.
With the potential matchup between the IBF titleholder and Anthony Joshua looming, there is hope for unification in the heavyweight division. However, the uncertainties surrounding the alphabelts raise doubts about whether all four titles will come together again. Despite the chaos of conflicting obligations and vacant belts, one certainty remains – Oleksandr Usyk stands as the undisputed and rightful heavyweight champion until beaten or retirement beckons.