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IBF Orders Daniel Dubois vs Derek Chisora: Usyk Rematch Put On Hold
- Austin Jones
- Apr 23
- 2 min read
IBF Orders Daniel Dubois vs Derek Chisora: A Mandatory Clash or a Strategic Move?
Daniel Dubois vs Derek Chisora - In a significant development within the heavyweight division, the International Boxing Federation (IBF) has officially mandated that Daniel "Dynamite" Dubois defend his heavyweight title against Derek "War" Chisora. This order, issued on April 22, 2025, has set the stage for a potential showdown between the two British heavyweights. However, the timing of this mandate raises questions about its implications on the broader landscape of heavyweight boxing.
The IBF's Mandate
The IBF has stipulated that Dubois, who holds a record of 22 wins and 2 losses, must face Chisora, currently ranked as the IBF's mandatory challenger. Chisora earned this position by defeating Otto Wallin in a final eliminator bout in February 2025. The IBF has given both fighters 30 days, until May 22, to reach a financial agreement for the bout. If no agreement is made, a purse bid will be called to determine the fight's financial terms.
Dubois' Pursuit of Undisputed Glory
While the IBF's order is clear, Dubois has expressed a strong desire to unify the heavyweight titles by facing Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning WBA, WBC, and WBO champion. Dubois previously challenged Usyk in 2023 but lost by ninth-round knockout in a bout marred by controversy over a disputed low blow. Since then, Dubois has been elevated to the IBF's full heavyweight champion after Usyk relinquished the title to pursue a rematch with Tyson Fury .
Promoter Frank Warren has indicated that Dubois' team has submitted a petition to the WBO, requesting an exemption to allow the Usyk rematch to take precedence over Usyk's mandatory defense against Joseph Parker. The WBO Championship Committee is currently reviewing this request.
Chisora's Final Push
For Chisora, this potential title fight represents a significant opportunity in the twilight of his career. At 41 years old, Chisora has amassed a record of 36 wins and 13 losses. He has previously faced top-tier opponents, including Tyson Fury and Joseph Parker, and has expressed a desire to retire after his 50th professional fight. A bout against Dubois would not only be a career milestone but also a chance to secure a world title before hanging up his gloves.
The Bigger Picture
The IBF's mandate has added complexity to the heavyweight division's title picture. While Dubois aims for an undisputed championship bout with Usyk, the IBF's order places pressure on him to fulfill his mandatory obligations. This situation underscores the challenges fighters face in navigating the requirements of multiple sanctioning bodies, each with its own set of rules and timelines.
FIGHT.TV Breaks It Down
As the deadline for negotiations approaches, the boxing world watches closely to see how Dubois and Chisora will proceed. Will Dubois prioritize the unification bout with Usyk, or will he comply with the IBF's mandate to face Chisora? The outcome of these decisions will have significant implications for the heavyweight division and could shape the future of the sport.
