Itauma ordered to hold talks over IBF title fight

New Delhi, India Jul 1, 2026 ALN: Briton Moses Itauma has been ordered by the IBF to hold talks with Cuba's Frank Sanchez about fighting for the vacant heavyweight title.

Last week, Oleksandr Usyk relinquished his IBF, WBA 'super' and WBC belts, creating an opportunity for contenders in the heavyweight division. This decision by Usyk, a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion, has sent shockwaves through the community as it opens up the landscape for emerging talents and established fighters alike. Usyk's move comes after a series of high-profile bouts and negotiations that have kept the heavyweight division in the spotlight.

The International Federation (IBF) stated that, "in accordance with IBF championship rules," it wants Sanchez, who currently holds the number one position in their heavyweight rankings, to face number three contender Itauma. This directive highlights the IBF's commitment to maintaining a competitive environment within the division, ensuring that top-ranked fighters are given the opportunity to compete for championship titles.

The IBF has set a deadline for both fighters to reach an agreement regarding the fight, which is until 29 July. This timeframe adds a sense of urgency to the negotiations, as both Itauma and Sanchez will need to consider their respective training schedules, promotional commitments, and potential financial arrangements. The outcome of these talks will significantly impact both fighters' careers and the overall dynamics of the heavyweight division.

Itauma, at just 21 years old, is already making waves in the world of . He is scheduled to face Croatia's Filip Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena on 29 August, a match he has labeled as his "toughest fight" to date. This bout against Hrgovic, a seasoned fighter with a strong professional record, will be crucial for Itauma's development and could serve as a pivotal moment in his career. The fight will not only test Itauma's skills but also his ability to handle pressure against a more experienced opponent.

There is a possibility that Itauma might withdraw from the Hrgovic fight or agree to face Sanchez after this bout. The decision will likely depend on the outcomes of both the negotiations with Sanchez and the fight against Hrgovic. If Itauma chooses to pursue the title shot against Sanchez, it would mean prioritizing the opportunity for a championship over a challenging match that could enhance his experience and skills. This decision-making process is critical, as the heavyweight division often rewards fighters who take calculated risks.

The BBC has reached out to Itauma's promoter, Queensberry Promotions, for further comments on the situation. The promoter's insights will be critical in understanding Itauma's strategy moving forward, especially considering the implications of both potential fights on his career trajectory. Queensberry Promotions has a history of managing fighters effectively, and their guidance will be essential for Itauma as he navigates these significant opportunities. The role of a promoter in is not only to manage the logistics of fights but also to help fighters build their brands and public personas.

In March, Itauma achieved an impressive fifth-round stoppage victory over Jermaine Franklin in Manchester, showcasing his potential in the heavyweight division. This victory not only enhanced his reputation but also solidified his position as a serious contender within the IBF rankings. Itauma's performance against Franklin demonstrated his ability to compete at a high level and his readiness to take on more challenging opponents. Such victories are essential for young fighters, as they build confidence and attract attention from promoters and fans alike.

While the IBF is keen to arrange a bout for the vacant title, the WBC has upgraded interim champion Agit Kabayel to full champion following Usyk's decision to vacate its belt. This move by the WBC further complicates the heavyweight landscape, as it introduces another titleholder into the mix. Kabayel's elevation to champion status means that there are now multiple belts at stake, increasing the stakes for fighters like Itauma and Sanchez who are vying for recognition and championship opportunities. The existence of multiple champions can lead to a fragmented division, where fighters may find it difficult to secure high-profile matchups.

Two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk, who was required to fight German Kabayel after being granted an exemption to face Rico Verhoeven in May, is now free to pursue any opponent. This newfound freedom for Usyk could lead to exciting matchups in the future, as he seeks to re-establish himself as a top contender in the heavyweight division. His decision to vacate the belts may have been strategic, allowing him to avoid mandatory defenses while seeking more lucrative and high-profile fights. Such strategic moves are not uncommon in , where fighters and their teams must navigate a complex web of titles, rankings, and promotional obligations.

This development adds another layer of excitement to the heavyweight division, as Itauma and Sanchez prepare to negotiate for a title shot. The implications of these negotiations extend beyond just the two fighters involved; they could influence the matchups and rankings of other contenders in the heavyweight division. As fighters jockey for position, the outcomes of these negotiations and subsequent fights will shape the future of heavyweight . The heavyweight division has historically been the most glamorous and followed segment of , often featuring the biggest stars and most significant bouts.

In conclusion, the heavyweight division is currently experiencing a dynamic shift following Usyk's relinquishment of his titles. With the IBF mandating a potential bout between Itauma and Sanchez, the landscape is ripe for new champions to emerge. As the fighters prepare for negotiations and upcoming bouts, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how these developments unfold. The outcomes will not only define the careers of Itauma and Sanchez but will also set the stage for future heavyweight matchups in a division that has long been known for its unpredictability and excitement. The next few months will be crucial, as the heavyweight division continues to evolve, and the next generation of fighters, including Itauma, seeks to make their mark on the .