OLEKSANDR USYK has launched a desperate bid to keep hold of his undisputed title.
The Ukrainian, 37, beat Tyson Fury in an epic heavyweight showdown to be crowned champion of the world.
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Oleksandr Usyk beat Tyson Fury to be crowned undisputed heavyweight championCredit: Reuters
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The bruising showdown is set for a rematchCredit: AFP
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Filip Hrgovic thinks he has earned a world title shotCredit: Getty
But Usyk faces being forced to vacate the IBF title ahead of overdue mandatory challenger Filip Hrgovic’s bout with Daniel Dubois.
The Croat, who has been waiting in the wings for 18 months, takes on the Brit on June 1.
IBF president Daryl Peoples confirmed to Lance Pugmire that Usyk has requested to keep the belt to ensure his rematch with Fury has the undisputed title on the line.
Usyk’s manager Egis Klimas told BoxingScene: “We’re waiting for a decision to be made.
“I think it’s more important for Tyson Fury now, not for Oleksandr.
“Oleksandr, of course, is a two-time unified [champion at cruiserweight and heavyweight] and if the next fight is just for the three belts, I don’t think it’s going to be fair for either of the two guys. Either Tyson Fury or for Oleksandr.
“But as far as importance, I think it’s more important for Team Fury to get this title.
“Imagine if Fury wins – he’s not going to be undisputed, so he is losing the chance.
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“The rematch, the clause, was so both guys had the chance to be undisputed.
“I hope the IBF are going to make the right decision.”
Emotional Oleksandr Usyk IN TEARS as he pays tribute to his father after beating Tyson Fury
Hrgovic, 31, is unbeaten in 17 fights since turning pro and believes he deserves a world title shot.
But with Fury, 35, activating his rematch clause, IBF chiefs may want to see all the titles on the line when he faces Fury again – potentially in October.
Should that be the case then Hrgovic’s fight with Dubois would most likely be for an interim world title.
Saudi Arabia chief Turki Alalshikh has revealed that the winner of Hrgovic vs Dubois will go on to face Anthony Joshua in September.
AJ has returned to form and will ultimately be eyeing an all-British bout between himself and Fury in the future too.
