Oleksandr Usyk launches bid to avoid being stripped of undisputed title after Tyson Fury activates rematch clause

OLEKSANDR USYK launched a desperate bid to retain his undisputed title.

The 37-year-old Ukrainian beat Tyson Fury in an epic heavyweight clash to be crowned world champion.

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But Usyk faces being forced to vacate the IBF title ahead of Filip Hrgovic’s mandatory challenger fight with Daniel Dubois.

The Croatian, who has been waiting for 18 months, faces the Briton on June 1st.

IBF President Daryl Peoples confirmed Lance Pugmire that Usyk asked to keep the belt to ensure his rematch with Fury has the undisputed title on the line.

Usyk’s manager Egis Klimas said boxing scene: “We are waiting for a decision to be made.

“I think it’s more important for Tyson Fury now, not for Oleksandr.

“Oleksandr, of course, is twice unified [champion at cruiserweight and heavyweight] and if the next fight is just for the three belts, I don’t think it will be fair for either of them. Or Tyson Fury or for Oleksandr.

“But as far as importance goes, I think it’s more important for Team Fury to win this title.

“Imagine if Fury wins – he won’t be undisputed, so he’s missing his chance.

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“The rematch, the clause, was so that both of them would have the chance to be undisputed.

“I hope the IBF makes the right decision.”

Hrgovic, 31, is undefeated in 17 fights since turning pro and believes he deserves a world title shot.

But with Fury, 35, activating his rematch clause, IBF bosses may want to see all titles on the line when he faces Fury again – potentially in October.

If that’s the case, Hrgovic’s fight with Dubois would likely be for the interim world title.

Saudi Arabia boss Turki Alalshikh has revealed that the winner of Hrgovic vs Dubois will face Anthony Joshua in September.

AJ has returned to form and will be eyeing an all-British fight between him and Fury in the future too.

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