Springfield, NJ, USA - The IBF has ordered a final eliminator between Martin Bakole and Agit Kabayel to determine the mandatory challenger for Daniel Dubois' world title, according to a report from talkSPORT. Both Bakole, ranked No.5, and Kabayel, ranked No.4, have been given a deadline to confirm their availability for the bout, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal clash in the heavyweight landscape.

The IBF’s official letter outlines the need to fill the vacant No.1 contender spot and provides both fighters with a three-day window to confirm their participation. Should either fighter decline or fail to meet the deadline, the IBF will move down the rankings, possibly approaching Zhilei Zhang as the next available contender.

With the No.1 and No.2 slots currently vacant, this eliminator carries big implications for both Bakole and Kabayel. The winner will secure the mandatory challenger position, guaranteeing a future title shot against Daniel Dubois, the current title holder. Dubois, fresh off his knockout win over Anthony Joshua at Wembley, is likely to pursue a rematch with Joshua, leaving the door open for Bakole or Kabayel to step in next.

Both fighters have compelling narratives that have brought them to this point. Martin Bakole's stock has skyrocketed after his dominant victory over rising American prospect Jared Anderson, whom he stopped in five rounds in August. Bakole’s power and durability were on full display as he dropped Anderson three times en route to the stoppage. Trainer Billy Nelson had previously expressed frustration that top contenders were avoiding Bakole, but the IBF’s decision now gives him a clear path toward the title.

On the other hand, Agit Kabayel boasts an undefeated record of 25-0 and has quietly climbed the ranks with impressive victories. Kabayel’s recent wins over Arslanbek Makhmudov and Frank Sanchez have demonstrated his technical prowess and resilience. Despite being somewhat under the radar compared to other top heavyweights, Kabayel has positioned himself as a formidable force in the division, and a win over Bakole would cement his status as a top-tier contender.

The fight between Bakole and Kabayel should be an intriguing contest of contrasting styles. Bakole, a powerhouse from the Democratic Republic of Congo, has long been regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters in the world. Known for his heavy hands and ability to absorb punishment, Bakole has often been described as a “dangerman” in heavyweight circles, with numerous stories of him outboxing and hurting top tier heavyweights in sparring.

Kabayel, in contrast, is a more technical boxer, using his movement and timing to neutralize opponents with good mix of punches and a deadly body attack. His wins over undefeated top heavyweights like Arslanbek Makhmudov and Frank Sanchez prove that he has the skill set to deal with Bakole. Kabayel’s ability to avoid taking too much damage while capitalizing on openings has made him a dangerous opponent, even for the division’s elite.

Whoever wins the eliminator will be in prime position to face the winner of the expected Dubois-Joshua rematch, which could take place in 2025. The prospect of a Bakole or Kabayel title shot injects fresh excitement into the heavyweight division, especially as other top contenders like Zhilei Zhang and Joseph Parker continue to jockey for position.

It’s also worth noting that the fight could potentially land on the undercard of the highly anticipated Usyk-Fury rematch, scheduled for December 21, 2024, in Riyadh. With Saudi Arabia’s growing interest in hosting marquee boxing events, Bakole and Kabayel may find themselves fighting on one of the biggest stages in the sport. Both fighters have fought in high-stakes environments before, and this eliminator would certainly add to the spectacle.

Both Bakole and Kabayel have demonstrated in their careers that neither is afraid to take on tough challenges. Bakole has been calling out top contenders and champions for years, determined to prove his worth on the world stage. Kabayel, meanwhile, has steadily built an undefeated record and taken on increasingly difficult opponents, all while staying largely out of the limelight.

This fight represents a crossroads for both men. For Bakole, a win would validate his years of hard work and secure him the world title shot he has long craved. For Kabayel, victory would finally thrust him into the global spotlight, proving that his unblemished record is not the result of facing lesser opposition.