Former IBF lightweight champion Raymond Muratalla has officially vacated his title to move up to the 140-pound division. The sanctioning body has ordered top contenders Andy Cruz and Artur Subkhankulov to negotiate a fight for the vacant belt within 30 days.
Muratalla’s decision to relinquish the championship comes shortly after he retained his belt by unanimous decision against Robson Conceicao at The Theater at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas. The American fighter has opted to step up to the light welterweight category, prompting immediate action from the sanctioning body to fill the vacant throne.
Cesar Seda confirmed that the IBF has instructed the top two contenders to reach an agreement before entering purse bids. Cruz and Subkhankulov have been granted a four-week window to finalize contractual terms for the vacant world title bout.
Cruz, who holds a record of seven wins and one defeat with four knockouts, achieves an immediate opportunity to capture his first professional world championship. The Cuban suffered his only defeat in a competitive contest against Muratalla in January. He was scheduled to compete in a final eliminator in June, but opponent Albert Bell withdrew shortly before the event. Cruz instead faced late replacement Abraham Montoya, securing a third-round stoppage to solidify his standing as a primary contender.
Subkhankulov enters the title picture undefeated in 12 professional bouts, having recorded six victories by knockout. The 34-year-old built an extensive amateur career prior to turning professional and earned his mandatory status by stopping Tajik fighter Bakhodur Usmonov in the 12th round of his previous appearance.
The proposed contest renews an established rivalry from their unpaid days. Subkhankulov previously defeated Cruz via a split decision in 2019 during an amateur tournament.
Both promotional teams must complete negotiations within the designated timeframe. If no agreement is reached, the IBF will place the championship fight up for purse bids.
