Daniel Dubois agrees to an IBF eliminator in an attempt to fast-track his way to the Usyk trilogy

The IBF look to have finally set up a title eliminator, with Daniel Dubois (22-3, 21KO’s) agreeing to take on Frank Sanchez (25-1, 18 KO’s), with the winner set to face - currently Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KO’s) - for the IBF, and potentially undisputed heavyweight title.

Dubois was not the first name on the list, with Filip Hrgovic, Efe Ajagba, and Moses Itauma all contacted yet choosing to turn the offer down. 

Sanchez is not exactly seen as a top contender by the boxing world, having fought just once since putting on a dreadful performance in a stoppage loss to Agit Kabayel in 2024. 

His last bout - against Ramon Olivas Echeverria in February - saw him put on a more promising performance. However, with the 34-year-old journeman not ranked by any of the major belts, it's tough to voice much optimism towards the Cubans' odds against a top contender such as ‘Triple D’

Terms have yet to be agreed upon, but Dubois and Sanchez have been given until October 22 to agree on a deal, or the bout will go to a purse bid. 

A win for Dubois would almost guarantee a trilogy fight against his Ukrainian counterpart - assuming Usyk holds on to the IBF strap. 

The fight would provide not only an opportunity for the Briton to finally get a leg up on the champion, but also a chance to reclaim his IBF title, which he lost to the 38-year-old in July. 

Dubois will be hoping that it's not too little too late, with Usyk nearing the end of his career. The undefeated Ukrainian is set to face Joseph Parker in 2026, but has hinted that he will explore new avenues in the near future. 

In a statement released by Usyk’s promotional company, they hinted that his reign over boxing may soon come to a close.

“Oleksandr has earned the time to recover. And after that, fans will see him back in the ring - ready for new great fights.

"Right now, our team is considering new opportunities and an exciting location to stage another fight for the undisputed world championship.

"In the meantime, we wish good luck to Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley - may the best man win."

It would be understandable for Usyk to leave Dubois' calls unanswered, with the champion putting a lid on any qualms surrounding their first meeting with a ferocious performance in July.