Raymond Muratalla has inherited the IBF lightweight title after the sanctioning body announced a procedural move following the retirement of Vasiliy Lomachenko.
Capturing world titles in three weight divisions across a glittering professional boxing career, Lomachenko officially announced he would be hanging up his gloves last Thursday via social media.
The decorated Ukrainian held the IBF lightweight title after defeating George Kambosos Jr. in May 2024 by 11th-round TKO.
Lomachenko didn't step back in the ring to defend his belt, with discussions for a long-mooted unification affair with Gervonta 'Tank' Davis failing to materialise.
As a result of his retirement, the IBF have promoted Muratalla from his interim title, which he secured by defeating Zaur Abdullaev by unanimous decision in May.
The undefeated American is expected to make the first defence of his new title against the winner of Andy Cruz's eliminator bout against Hinonori Mishiro, which takes place this Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Cuban Cruz has been turning heads since capturing gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a potential world title showdown against Muratalla is a mouth-watering prospect.
In a statement on Muratalla's elevation to champion status, the sanctioning body said: “The IBF received official notification on June 5 that Vasiliy Lomachenko was retiring from the sport of boxing, thereby relinquishing his title as IBF lightweight world champion.
"The IBF is proud and honored to count Mr. Lomachenko among its roster of former champions.
"His achievements in the ring, as both a professional and an amateur, are truly exceptional. He has built a legacy marked by determination, skill, and sportsmanship that will continue to inspire generations of fighters to come.
"We extend our sincere gratitude to Loma for his contributions to the sport and to the IBF. We wish him all the best and every success in his future endeavors."
Related Articles
Boxing News
Vasiliy Lomachenko announces boxing retirement in emotional social media video
Modern-day boxing great Vasiliy Lomachenko has officially announced his retirement after capturing world titles in three weight divisions across a glittering 11-year-long professional boxing career.
Mark Mothershaw
05 Jun 25
