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Frank Sanchez vs Efe Ajagba winner will face Daniel Dubois for IBF belt

Frank Sanchez vs Efe Ajagba winner will face Daniel Dubois for IBF belt

The IBF has ordered a title eliminator between Frank Sanchez and Efe Ajagba - with the winner becoming the mandatory challenger for Daniel Dubois’ IBF heavyweight title.

Dubois, 27, is due to face Oleksandr Usyk on 19 July 2025 for the undisputed world title fight, and Sanchez - who beat Ajagba, 31, in a dominant points win in 2021 - could be getting in the ring to battle ‘Dynamite’ if he defeats Ajagba in their rematch.

While their next fight has not been finalised yet, Sanchez, 32, is hoping it will be on the undercard of Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez vs Terence Crawford, which will take place at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas on 13 September.

Speaking with Sky Sports, Sanchez said: “I don't get involved on that side of the business. I have fought on Canelo's undercard in the past. I don't know where my fight with Ajagba will be, but, of course, it would be even more special if it was on that card.”

Sanchez - who has the same trainer as Canelo - added: “I aspire to be like Canelo, and Canelo vs Crawford it is the biggest fight in boxing. I conssider myself lucky to train with Canelo and share the same coach in Eddy Reynoso.

“It is inspiring to watch the level of dedication and discipline Canelo brings to training. It is a great privilege to be on the same team.”

Last year, Sanchez underwent arthroscopic knee surgery following his sole loss to Agit Kabayel, though the boxer is confident he still has what it takes to beat Ajagba.

He said: “Ajagba has improved as a fighter. It will not be easy, but when I am healthy, I can beat anyone in the world.
“I will win against whoever the IBF puts in front of me for the No. 1 position.”

Sanchez's co-manager Mike Borao has backed the fighter to beat Ajagba and take on Dubois.

He said: “Usyk has accomplished everything there is to accomplish. I can envision him retiring after his next fight with Dubois, making this IBF eliminator majorly significant.

“Frank was injured in his sole loss. He is healthy and will become the first Cuban heavyweight champion.”

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