Dubois gets permission to face new challenger

Daniel Dubois has been given the go-ahead from the International Boxing Federation (IBF) to fight a new challenger. The prospect of a “new challenger” is coming following uncertainties over the possibility of former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua keeping up with the planned rematch with Dubois next year. 

The pair met back in September where Joshua was knocked out in the fifth round of the fight and Dubois retained the IBF title. A rematch was planned and decided for, but it seems it would no longer be happening. 

Stepping up as a challenger for Dubois’ IBF title could be Fabio Wardley. The British fighter remains undefeated after 19 fights with 18 wins and one draw to his name and currently holds the  British, Commonwealth, and WBA Continental heavyweight titles. So, it is challenging for the IBF title, but it seems like a step in the right direction. 

Besides Wardley, another fighter that could be considered is Joseph Parker, who has already voiced his readiness for next February. A former WBO heavyweight champion, Parker (38-35-3), recently won the WBO interim heavyweight title and, according to his trainer Andy Lee, is ready to face the IBF title. 

According to the IBF, the fight should happen before April 22, 2024, otherwise Dubois be forced to make a mandatory defence. Already, Joshua’s camp has admitted he would not be available for the rematch in February. 

Speaking to Sky Sports, Hearn confirmed that some more time could be needed to get Joshua ready for a fight: “You’ve got a few little niggles, you get them looked at, and then you can’t punch again for four, five weeks. If we’re going to fight him in February, we need to start camp in about three weeks’ time. It’s quite a fast turnaround.”

As for Dubois’ team, the fight in February would happen with or without Joshua on the bill, meaning they are already looking at a possible challenger. Frank Warren, Dubois promoter, has already said that if Joshua is not available for the fight, then any top five ranked fighter that is available will be chosen instead.