Daniel Dubois vs. Derek Chisora Ordered by IBF

London, UK - ​The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has announced plans to mandate a heavyweight title defense between current champion Daniel Dubois and veteran contender Derek Chisora. This directive, expected to be issued on April 22, stipulates that Dubois must defend his title by June 21. ​

Derek Chisora, aged 41, has earned his position as the IBF's mandatory challenger following a series of notable victories. In February, he secured a unanimous decision win over Otto Wallin, a bout that served as an IBF title eliminator.  That win marked Chisora's 49th professional fight, setting the stage for a potential 50th super-bout.

Daniel Dubois, with a record of 22 wins (21 by knockout) and 2 losses, has not entered the ring since his emphatic fifth-round knockout of Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. A scheduled February 22 defense against Joseph Parker in Riyadh was canceled due to Dubois contracting a virus during fight week.

While the IBF is preparing to enforce the mandatory defense against Chisora, there is significant interest in a unification bout between Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk, the recognized champion of the world. According to IBF regulations, unification matches take precedence over mandatory defenses.  Usyk, who previously defeated Dubois in ninth-round stoppage in August 2023, has expressed interest in a rematch to solidify his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion. ​

Promoter Frank Warren has indicated that if the unification bout with Usyk does not materialize, Dubois will fulfill his mandatory obligation by facing Chisora. Warren emphasized the significance of the Dubois-Chisora matchup, noting that it could serve as a fitting culmination to Chisora's storied career and provide Dubois with a high-profile defense.