Filip Hrgović wins IBF heavyweight title as Usyk targets Wilder fight

Filip Hrgović has become the IBF heavyweight world champion after a dramatic ninth-round knockout of Moses Itauma at London’s O2 Arena. Despite being knocked down in the second round and trailing on the judges' scorecards, the Croatian boxer secured the title that was recently vacated by Oleksandr Usyk.

Following his championship win, Oleksandr Usyk is targeting a final career bout against Deontay Wilder. Usyk’s advisor, Serhii Lapin, confirmed that negotiations are underway with Zuffa Boxing, a promotional house led by UFC President Dana White. The proposed fight is aimed for March 2027 in the United States, which would mark Usyk’s first major professional fight on American soil as he seeks to conclude his career.

While Usyk has relinquished his WBA, WBC, and IBF belts, he expressed respect for Hrgović’s victory. Negotiations for the Usyk-Wilder matchup are currently at a high level, though no formal contracts have been signed.