Richardson Hitchins Says Jamaine Ortiz Fight Is Off for January 31

IBF junior welterweight champion Richardson Hitchins says he is no longer fighting Jamaine Ortiz on January 31, claiming he was informed today that the bout is off.

Hitchins made the announcement on X, responding to public speculation and questions from Jamaine Ortiz, who suggested he was being lined up with a replacement opponent despite Hitchins holding the title.

“Just know i signed to fight you and i just got news today im not fighting on January 31st against you anymore,” Hitchins wrote. “Im just as lost as you.”

Ortiz had earlier questioned how a titleholder could be removed from his own fight, writing that he had been told another opponent was being sought for him.

The development adds fresh confusion to what was supposed to be Hitchins’ first defense of the International Boxing Federation 140-pound title. No explanation has been provided by the sanctioning body, the promoter, or the event organizers.

As of now, there is no confirmed opponent for either fighter, and no clarity on whether Hitchins will appear on the January 31 card at all.

Neither camp has indicated whether the cancellation is contractual, promotional, or sanctioning-body related. Further updates are expected once promoters or the IBF address the situation.