Daniel Dubois is within touching distance of the world title he lost just four months ago.
The big-punching Brit was elevated to full IBF World Heavyweight Champion in 2024 thanks to Oleksandr Usyk vacating the belt. His first and only successful defence came against Anthony Joshua that September at Wembley Stadium, with a highlight reel knockout ending things in the fifth.
Dubois was then moved into a rematch with Usyk after suffering a ninth round stoppage loss in their first encounter in 2023. This time, all four major belts were on the line. Returning to Wembley with the hopes of making history as the hometown hero, he was instead soundly beaten and stopped by the elite Ukrainian.
With a return this year nixed due to an injury, the 28-year-old is slated for an early 2026 comeback, and he may have just found his opponent.
Ranked at number five with the IBF, Dubois has been ordered to take part in a final eliminator against number three contender Frank Sanchez. Moses Itauma, Efe Ajagba and Richard Torrez were all previously discussed for the fight against Cuba’s Sanchez, who is 25-1 with 18 knockouts, his sole defeat coming at the hands of Agit Kabayel.
As first reported by Darshan Desai, the sanctioning body has set purse bids for November 13. The victor will become mandatory challenger for Usyk, who still holds all four belts. Next up in the agreed rotation is the WBO, meaning Interim Champion Fabio Wardley is first in line for his shot. Kabayel holds the WBC Interim strap, whilst the WBA’s version of that belt is vacant, though Kubrat Pulev is the Regular titleholder and Moses Itauma is the number one contender.
It remains to be seen whether Usyk, now 38 years old, will stick around to fulfil any or all of his mandatory obligations. Regardless, Dubois will relish the opportunity for the top spot. If he misses out on a trilogy with Usyk – which many will see as a blessing in disguise – he will still be in prime position to become a two-time world champion.
