The International Boxing Federation is reportedly preparing to mandate a heavyweight title fight between champion Daniel Dubois and 41-year-old Derek Chisora. Observers and fans around the world have been quick to criticize the matchup, labeling it a one-sided affair that could frustrate viewers outside of the UK. Still, some British fans may turn out for the fight.
Chisora earned his IBF mandatory position in February by defeating Otto Wallin via a 12-round unanimous decision, a bout many questioned as an eliminator given the advanced age and declining form of both fighters. Since his victory, critics have pointed out Chisora’s consistent struggles when facing elite opponents. There’s also skepticism regarding whether this opportunity is truly merited, or if it highlights a structural flaw in how sanctioning bodies assign mandatory contenders.
Watch Chisora vs. Wallin highlights: Watch
Dubois, meanwhile, remains favored to dominate Chisora, with many, including us, predicting a quick knockout. At this stage, the stronger point of interest for fans is Oleksandr Usyk’s pursuit of an undisputed clash, an event with far more international appeal. Should Dubois dispatch Chisora easily, it would only add fuel to the argument that the IBF must tighten its oversight of title eliminators and consider more credible contenders for mandatory status.
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