Richardson Hitchins’ defense against Oscar Duarte was canceled on the day of the fight after the undefeated champion fell ill following an IBF rehydration test, leaving the junior welterweight division suddenly uncertain.
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Richardson Hitchins’ hold on the IBF junior welterweight title is now in question after illness forced him to pull out of his fight with Oscar Duarte just hours before they got into the ring on Saturday night in Las Vegas. The fight was released on the Mario Barrios vs. Ryan Garcia’s pay-per-view at T-Mobile Arena after Hitchins was physically unable to compete, ended one of the card’s most important title fights without a punch thrown.
The undefeated Brooklyn native weighed in at 140 pounds on Friday and returned Saturday morning for the IBF’s same-day rehydration test, where he registered at 149.4 pounds, just under the 150 pounds allowed by the judging organization. Duarte came in at 149.6 pounds, and within the limit. Soon after, Hitchins reportedly fell ill, with sources suggesting that food poisoning was the cause. His condition quickly worsened, and he withdrew before the event began.
Event organizers did not have time to secure a replacement opponent or salvage a title fight. The rest of DAZN’s pay-per-view card continued as planned, with some slots moved to fill vacant co-event space.
Hitchins, unbeaten in 20 professional fights with an eight-round knockout, was preparing to defend the IBF title he won in December 2024 with a decision victory over Liam Paro. His latest appearance solidified his standing at 140 pounds, stopping former lightweight champion George Kambosos Jr. in eight rounds last June at the Madison Square Garden Theatre.
Duarte, who entered the night with 30 wins, two losses and one draw, was going to challenge for his first world title. The Mexican contender got the chance by voluntary defense, while IBF contender Lindolfo Delgado was left behind.
Hitchins’ withdrawal introduces immediate uncertainty over the IBF belt. The sanctioning body was already preparing to impose a defense against Delgado, and now Hitchins may have to face that responsibility once he recovers. Any decision to fight for other fights or change divisions may require the approval of the IBF or the title may be vacated.
A move up to welterweight has been discussed in recent months, especially given Hitchins’ past comments about the IBF’s strict rehydration policy. His rehydration weigh-in on Saturday showed he was staying on target, and sources said the illness was unrelated to the clause.
Saturday’s cancellation halted Hitchins’ progress at a time when his position in the division had begun to solidify. His no-contest withdrawal leaves his title intact for now, but his control of the belt looks a little more secure than it did when he stepped on the scale 24 hours earlier.
Last updated on 2026/02/21 at 6:56 PM
