Daniel Dubois has been ordered to face Frank Sanchez in a newly announced IBF heavyweight title eliminator, just three months after losing his world title to Oleksandr Usyk.
Dubois enjoyed a career-defining moment last September when he stopped Anthony Joshua in the fifth round under the Wembley Arch to retain the IBF heavyweight belt. However, his return to the same venue saw a reversal of fortunes, as he was halted in the fifth round by Usyk in their undisputed heavyweight clash. The defeat prompted significant changes, with Dubois parting ways with trainer Don Charles and appointing Tony Sims as his new coach, alongside Sam Jones as his manager.
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According to journalist Dan Rafael, the IBF officially ordered the eliminator after higher-ranked contenders Efe Ajagba, Moses Itauma, and Richard Torrez declined the opportunity. The organization’s letter confirmed that Sanchez and Dubois, ranked fourth and seventh respectively, had both agreed to participate. “The winner of this bout will be designated as the #1 contender and the mandatory challenger,” the IBF stated, with negotiations to conclude by October 22.
The fight represents a challenging first test for Sims in Dubois’ corner. Sanchez, nicknamed “The Cuban Flash,” remains a dangerous and technically sound opponent despite being stopped by Agit Kabayel in his most recent high-level outing. A win for Dubois would place him back in title contention at a time when the IBF belt’s future could soon open up.
With speculation mounting that Usyk may retire or vacate one of his titles in 2026, Dubois could find himself upgraded to champion once again or fighting for a vacant strap. For “Triple D,” the path to redemption is suddenly wide open.
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