IBF orders Andy Cruz and Artur Subkhankulov to fight for vacant lightweight title

Raymond Muratalla has vacated the International Boxing Federation lightweight title, prompting the organisation to order a bout between Andy Cruz and Artur Subkhankulov for the vacant championship.

Cruz and Subkhankulov are former amateur rivals. The IBF’s order creates a pathway for the pair to contest the belt, although the supplied report does not say that terms have been agreed.

Muratalla most recently retained the title by unanimous decision against Robson Conceicao on 1 August 2026, according to the supplied image caption.

The reason for Muratalla’s decision to vacate has not been reported. No date, venue, promotional arrangements or negotiation deadline has been provided for the proposed Cruz–Subkhankulov bout.