In the world of professional boxing, an event has occurred that immediately sparked widespread resonance among fans and experts. The International Boxing Federation (IBF) released an updated ranking in the heavyweight division, and the headline news of the release was the complete absence of Oleksandr Usyk. The former undisputed world champion, a Ukrainian of global renown, has been officially removed from the list of the planet's top heavyweights.
As reported by RBC-Ukraine, the exclusion of the most decorated boxer of modern times, despite its provocative appearance, has a clear legal basis. Oleksandr Usyk voluntarily decided to vacate his championship belts and relinquish the title, providing an opportunity for other contenders to fight for the vacant crown.
Many fans, knowing that Usyk has no intention of hanging up his gloves, expected to see his name at the top of the contenders' rankings. However, the federation's regulations do not allow for compromises: an athlete who voluntarily relinquishes the title of champion is automatically removed from the current top 15. As a result, there is not a single representative of Ukraine left in the list of top heavyweight boxers.
New Leaders and Shift in Power
In the updated IBF list, the Cuban Frank Sanchez became the leader. The top five of the ranking is rounded out by the British Anthony Joshua. The third place was taken by the promising 19-year-old British boxer Moses Itauma. Experts note that the young fighter could rise even higher as early as August if he defeats Filip Hrgovic.
The situation with Ukrainian boxing in the organization's rankings is not catastrophic, but it is changing. The only representative of Ukraine to retain a place in the IBF tables remains the light-middleweight boxer (up to 66.7 kg) Karen Chukhadzhan. He managed to move up one step and now occupies 11th place in his category.
Parallel to these events, new stories are unfolding in Ukrainian boxing. It was previously reported that the Ukrainian Khizhnyak would fight the undefeated French boxer at Joshua's top show, which is also attracting the attention of the sports community.