Hitchins becomes unwell, resulting in cancellation of IBF title defense against Duarte.

LAS VEGAS — The IBF junior welterweight title defense of Richardson Hitchins against Oscar Duarte has been called off due to the champion’s illness, as reported by The Ring on Saturday.

This bout was one of two title fights in the 140-pound division featured on the “The Ring: High Stakes” card and was set to be the co-main event for Mario Barrios’ WBC welterweight title defense against Ryan Garcia at T-Mobile Arena.

Hitchins from Brooklyn (20-0, 8 KOs) reportedly became ill shortly after weighing in on Friday and experienced vomiting before being withdrawn early Saturday from his second title defense, which he secured in 2024 by defeating Liam Paro.

The IBF enforces a rehydration clause that stipulates fighters must not exceed 10 pounds over their weight class limit. Hitchins had expressed concerns during Thursday’s press conference regarding the rehydration clause and its impact on his performance against Gustavo Lemos in April 2024, a match he narrowly won by unanimous decision while appearing fatigued in the later rounds.

The bout had gained traction this week as Hitchins and Mexico’s Duarte (30-2-1, 23 KOs) intensified their verbal exchanges. However, with Hitchins’ exit, fans will miss the chance to witness the result of their matchup. It remains unclear whether the fight will be rescheduled or if Hitchins will choose to move up in weight.

Gary Antuanne Russell’s WBA junior welterweight title defense against Andy Hiraoka will now take the place of the co-main event for the evening.