Sanchez-Dubois Ordered For IBF #1 Eliminator » October 7, 2025

Fightnews.com has just received from the IBF, a copy of the correspondence pertaining to their ordering the two highest ranked available fighters at heavyweight to negotiate for an eliminator for the #1 spot in the division. Here is the main body of the letter to representatives of Frank Sanchez and Daniel Dubois:

Please be advised that Frank Sanchez, ranked #4, and Daniel Dubois, ranked #7, are the two
highest-ranked available contenders in the IBF Heavyweight division. Both have confirmed in
writing their willingness to participate in an eliminator bout. Accordingly, the IBF is ordering an
elimination contest between these two contenders to determine the mandatory challenger for the #1
position. The winner of this bout will be designated as the #1 contender and the mandatory
challenger. All negotiations must be concluded by October 22, 2025.
Frank Sanchez is represented by Michael Borao and Daniel Dubois is represented by Alex
Dombroff. Contact information for each party is listed above. In the event that you are unable to
come to an amiable agreement, the IBF will order a purse bid.
IBF Rule 5.C. cites: Any boxer who is contracted with a promoter, a network, or a state, tribal or
national commission to take another fight, or who is ill, injured, under a legal impediment which
could prevent the bout from taking place in the opinion of the IBF, or on suspension at the time the
Championships Chairman and the President order a bout under this rule shall be considered
unavailable.

IBF Rule 9.C cites: Should either contender decline to participate in negotiations, his ranking will
drop to below #10 for at least six (6) months and the next boxer in line will be offered the
opportunity to enter the elimination process. Neither fighter can take an intervening fight until the
Elimination process is concluded.
IBF Rule 9.D cites: The two highest ranked available contenders have the obligation to proceed to a
purse bid if so ordered by the President.