Filip Hrgovic’s pursuit of a world title unification bout with Daniel Dubois has been placed on hold as the IBF champion targets a mandatory defence on home soil in early 2027. Hrgovic captured the IBF heavyweight crown with a stunning stoppage victory over Moses Itauma in August.
The Croatian champion was ringside at The O2 Arena last Saturday to witness Dubois retain his WBO title, with the pair engaging in a face-off afterwards. However, rather than an immediate showdown, Hrgovic is poised to face mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez in Croatia.
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Highlights of the WBO heavyweight rematch between Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardley. Video courtesy of DAZN
Sanchez’s manager, Mike Borao, told Sky Sports: “I expect Frank Sanchez versus Filip Hrgovic to take place in the first quarter of 2027, perhaps in Zagreb, but it is too early to know for sure.”
He added: “I have already communicated with George Warren of Queensberry Promotions and will likely speak again this week. Frank possesses speed and power, complemented by experience and stamina, so he is eager to face Hrgovic. Eddie Reynoso loves the matchup, and so do I. Sanchez is determined to become the first Cuban heavyweight champion.”
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Highlights of the IBF heavyweight world title fight between Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic. Video courtesy of DAZN
Zagreb has emerged as a leading candidate to host the contest, with Arena Zagreb’s managing director, Sretan Saric, confirming the venue’s enthusiasm. “Of course I support the opportunity to hold the fight at Arena Zagreb,” Saric told Sky Sports.
Dubois Ready to Face ‘Anyone Who Wants It’
Dubois, who holds a previous victory over Hrgovic, has signalled his willingness to renew their rivalry. “To win all the belts. That’s the main thing now for me, collecting all the other belts,” he previously told Sky Sports.
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WBO heavyweight world champion Daniel Dubois says he is eyeing a future clash against Tyson Fury next year, admitting the fight would be ‘ground-breaking’
“It would mean everything to have all those belts. No one can take that away from me. That’s what I’m after now,” Dubois continued. “Any one of them, Hrgovic—he was there on Saturday, maybe him—or [WBC champion Agit] Kabayel. Hrgovic was tough as well. Kabayel, we’ll see what he’s about. He hasn’t been in with a guy like me, but he’s a good fighter. Just anyone with a damn belt… Anyone who wants it.”
