Eddie Hearn has criticized the IBF's decision to allow Oleksandr Usyk to retain his IBF heavyweight title for his upcoming rematch with Tyson Fury in October.
Hearn, who promotes Filip Hrgovic, believes this ruling is unjust as it delays Hrgovic's long-awaited mandatory title shot. Originally, Hrgovic was set to challenge for the IBF belt next, but he now faces an extended wait until 2025, with his imminent bout against Daniel Dubois on June 1st in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, not being for any titles.
Hearn argues that Usyk should be stripped of his IBF title to give Hrgovic the chance he has earned.
"You can’t ignore your mandatory challenger for two or three years."
Discussing the Usyk-Fury rematch, Hearn acknowledged Usyk as the favorite but supported the rematch. However, he stressed that Anthony Joshua’s main focus is on regaining the world heavyweight championship, regardless of who currently holds the titles. While a Fury-Joshua fight would be more significant if Fury avenges his loss to Usyk, Joshua's goal remains to reclaim the belts.
Hearn also revealed his understanding that the IBF had already made an exception to allow Usyk to keep his title for the rematch with Fury. He expressed disappointment over this decision, as it further postpones Hrgovic's shot at the title. According to Hearn, the initial agreement was that the winner of Usyk vs. Fury would be required to fight Hrgovic next without any exceptions.
So, the situation leaves Hrgovic and his team in a frustrating position:
"It’s not fair. I get both sides of the argument, but I do expect the IBF belt to come vacant, but it’s very unlikely for next Saturday," said Eddie signaling his hope for a resolution, even if it is not immediate.
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