The IBF has ordered an eliminator bout between Martin Bakole and Agit Kabayel, which could potentially impact Anthony Joshua’s plans for an immediate rematch against Daniel Dubois.
This eliminator fight is intended to determine the mandatory challenger for Dubois’ IBF title, and it might result in a delay for the highly anticipated rematch between AJ and the reigning champion.
Bakole, 31, recorded an impressive victory over Frank Sanchez, while 32-year-old Kabayel secured a career-defining knockout win over Jared Anderson. Both fighters have significantly climbed in the IBF rankings, setting the stage for what many are calling a “must-watch” eliminator to earn the next shot at Dubois.
Promoter Ben Shalom has hinted at a possible December date for the bout, although the details are yet to be finalized.
Renowned boxing commentator Michael Benson confirmed this development on his X page, stating, “The IBF has ordered an eliminator between Martin Bakole and Agit Kabayel to determine a mandatory challenger to heavyweight titleholder Daniel Dubois. Both fighters are coming off career-best performances.”
The announcement has led to speculations about its potential impact on Joshua’s immediate future.
Joshua, 34, has been considering an immediate rematch with Dubois after suffering a devastating knockout loss in their September clash at Wembley.
Dubois, 27, stunned the boxing world by securing a fifth-round knockout victory, knocking Joshua down four times.
With Dubois unavailable until February due to recovery, any further delay, such as the Bakole-Kabayel bout, could hinder Joshua’s plans for a swift return to the ring.
Promoter Eddie Hearn acknowledged that Joshua is determined to reclaim his lost IBF belt but might need to consider other opponents if the timeline extends.
“If the decision rests solely with AJ, as it will ultimately, it will be challenging to persuade him against opting for the rematch,” Hearn stated.
However, alternative matchups with Deontay Wilder or other top contenders are being considered, particularly if the highly anticipated clash between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury faces additional delays.
While Bakole and Kabayel vie for their shot at Dubois, Joshua is confronted with the difficult decision of either waiting for his rematch or remaining active in the latter stages of his career.
The heavyweight division’s future hinges on the outcomes of these critical matchups, with Saudi Arabia poised to host the rematch as part of its Riyadh Season festivities.
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