There’s always excitement around heavyweight boxing due to the immense power, thrilling action, and potential for devastating knockouts. The IBF has recently ensured that fans will get to witness two hard-hitting heavyweights clash, as they fight for a chance to challenge Daniel Dubois next. However, this could complicate another anticipated matchup, potentially disrupting Anthony Joshua’s plans for a rematch.
The IBF has ordered a title eliminator between Martin Bakole and Agit Kabayel, with the winner becoming the mandatory challenger for Dubois’ IBF title. Bakole, 31, dominated Frank Sanchez in his last fight, while Kabayel, 32, knocked out Jared Anderson in his most impressive career performance. These victories helped both fighters climb the IBF rankings, putting them in position for this high-stakes eliminator.
TalkSports’ Michael Benson shared the news with fans, highlighting that this matchup will determine Dubois’ next challenger. Bakole is currently ranked 7th in ESPN’s heavyweight rankings, while Kabayel is 8th. While there’s no exact date set for the fight, Bakole’s promoter, Ben Shalom, has expressed a desire to schedule it for December. However, this could interfere with Joshua’s potential rematch with Dubois, as the IBF eliminator might take precedence.
Anthony Joshua, 34, has been pushing for a rematch against Dubois to reclaim a heavyweight title. However, if the Bakole-Kabayel fight takes place, it could delay Joshua’s plans. In the meantime, Joshua has other potential matchups, including a fight with Deontay Wilder or other top contenders, as he awaits the outcome of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury. Should Usyk and Fury’s bout experience any delays, Joshua may be left waiting even longer for his next big fight.
Dubois, 27, is unlikely to be available for a rematch until February, which could limit Joshua’s activity during a critical phase of his career. Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, noted that it will ultimately be Joshua’s decision whether to wait for the rematch. Hearn acknowledged that it may be difficult to persuade Joshua not to pursue the Dubois fight. How the Bakole-Kabayel eliminator and the Usyk-Fury match play out will significantly impact the timing and likelihood of a Dubois-Joshua rematch.
The upcoming clash between Bakole and Kabayel has the potential to shake up the heavyweight division, and it may indeed derail Joshua’s hopes for an immediate rematch with Dubois. Fans are left to wonder how this title eliminator will influence the future of the heavyweight scene.
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