Itauma Ordered to Hold Talks for IBF Heavyweight Title

British boxer Moses Itauma has been ordered by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) to enter into negotiations with Cuban fighter Frank Sanchez. The purpose of these discussions is to determine the contenders for the IBF heavyweight title, which was recently vacated. The vacant title became available following Oleksandr Usyk's decision to relinquish it after his undisputed championship win.

The IBF's decision, communicated this week, mandates that both Itauma and Sanchez engage in good-faith discussions to reach an agreement for a championship bout. Should the two parties fail to come to terms within a specified timeframe, the IBF has indicated that it will proceed to a purse bid, allowing promoters to bid for the rights to stage the fight. This process ensures that a mandatory defense of the title will be scheduled.

Itauma, a rising prospect in the heavyweight division, has been making significant strides in his professional career. Sanchez, a seasoned contender, also presents a formidable challenge. The potential matchup between the two fighters is anticipated to draw considerable attention from boxing enthusiasts, given the stakes involved in competing for a major world championship belt. The IBF's order marks a crucial step towards crowning a new heavyweight king.