Raymond Muratalla has become the latest fighter to be promoted from a status of interim champion to full champion by the IBF, thereby joining an esteemed list of fighters who became world champions without actually fighting for a title. The sanctioning body’s decision was revealed during the IBF’s most recent press release.

American champion Raymond Muratalla (23-0, 17 KO’s) defeated Russian contender Zaur Abdullaev (20-2, 12 KO’s) on May 10th to claim the IBF interim lightweight (135 lbs) title. Following Lomachenko’s retirement two weeks ago, the IBF has gone the expected route of elevating Muratalla to world champion as their latest statement indicated.

“The International Boxing Federation (IBF) received official notification on June 5, that Vasily Lomachenko was retiring from the sport of boxing, thereby relinquishing his title as IBF Lightweight World Champion,” The IBF’s press release reads.

“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.

“Raymond Muratalla, formerly the IBF Interim Lightweight World Champion, has officially been elevated to full IBF Lightweight World Champion status. The scheduled elimination bout for the #1 position in the IBF Lightweight ratings between Andy Cruz and Hinonori Mishiro on June, 14, will determine the mandatory challenger who will face Muratalla in his first mandatory defense of the title.“

Following Cuban fighter Andy Cruz’ (6-0, 3 KO’s) victory over Japanese contender Hinonori Mishiro (17-2-1, 6 KO’s) this past Saturday, Cruz has now become both the mandatory challenger for Raymond Muratalla. The two fighters are expected to face each other in the ring this year once the IBF decides to order a bout. Cruz currently also holds the highest position on the IBF’s lightweight rankings at #3, with the #1 and #2 spots vacant.