IBF Set to Order Daniel Dubois vs. Derek Chisora, But Undisputed Clash With Usyk Takes Priority at the Crossroads of Boxing Rivals

The heavyweight division is once again at a crossroads, with the International Boxing Federation (IBF) set to order a high-stakes showdown between Daniel Dubois and Derek Chisora. This anticipated clash, however, comes at a time when the boxing world’s attention is fixated on the upcoming undisputed heavyweight title bout featuring Oleksandr Usyk. While Dubois and Chisora prepare for battle, the looming presence of Usyk’s championship defense throws a wrench into the IBF’s order, leaving fans and analysts speculating about how the division will unfold in the coming months.

Why the IBF Is Pushing for Dubois vs. Chisora

The IBF’s decision to mandate a fight between Dubois (20-2, 19 KOs) and Chisora (34-13, 23 KOs) stems from the need to maintain a structured ranking system within the heavyweight division. With Usyk currently holding the IBF, WBA, and WBO belts and Tyson Fury set to challenge him for the undisputed crown, the IBF must ensure that contenders continue to battle for positioning should a title become vacant.

Daniel Dubois, at just 26 years old, remains one of the division’s most dangerous punchers. Following his controversial loss to Usyk in August 2023, where he dropped Usyk with a body shot deemed illegal by the referee, Dubois has been on a mission to reclaim his standing as a legitimate title contender. The IBF sees his potential as a future champion and is pushing for a meaningful fight to solidify his status.

On the other hand, Derek Chisora, a veteran of the sport, continues to defy expectations. At 40 years old, Chisora has built a reputation as a fearless warrior, always willing to take on the toughest challenges. Though past his prime, his relentless style and durability make him a tough test for any contender, and a win over Dubois would position him for another major payday.

The Usyk Factor: A Title Complication

While the IBF moves forward with its Dubois vs. Chisora order, the undisputed clash between Usyk and Fury remains the primary focus of the heavyweight landscape. The two champions are set to face off on May 18, 2024, in a long-awaited battle that will determine the division’s undisputed ruler. However, boxing politics could once again complicate matters.

If Usyk emerges victorious, he may be forced to vacate the IBF title due to mandatory obligations. The sanctioning body has a history of stripping champions who do not comply with their ordered fights, as seen in previous cases with Canelo Alvarez and Josh Taylor. Should this happen, the Dubois-Chisora winner could be next in line for a vacant IBF belt, instantly elevating the fight’s stakes.

Conversely, if Fury wins, he may choose to defend his undisputed title or vacate belts to pursue other lucrative matchups, further altering the IBF’s plans. Either way, Dubois and Chisora find themselves in a unique position where their fight could determine the division’s next titleholder.

Breaking Down the Fight: Dubois vs. Chisora

The matchup between Dubois and Chisora is an intriguing clash of youth versus experience. Dubois possesses raw power, athleticism, and a more refined boxing skillset, while Chisora thrives in making fights ugly, pressuring opponents, and dragging them into brawls.

Dubois’ Keys to Victory:

1. Utilize the Jab: Dubois has a powerful jab that can keep Chisora at bay and prevent him from closing the distance.

2. Avoid Trading in the Pocket: Chisora excels in close-range warfare, so Dubois must use his footwork to control the fight from mid-range.

3. Target the Body: Chisora has shown vulnerabilities to body shots, and Dubois can capitalize on this by wearing him down over the rounds.

Chisora’s Keys to Victory:

1. Apply Relentless Pressure: Chisora’s best chance is to make Dubois uncomfortable, forcing him into exchanges and testing his stamina.

2. Take Dubois Into Deep Waters: The younger fighter has struggled when fights extend into later rounds, so Chisora must push the pace.

3. Land Overhand Rights: Dubois has been susceptible to looping right hands, and Chisora has the experience to exploit this weakness.

The Betting Outlook and Fan Expectations

As the fight approaches, betting odds will likely favor Dubois due to his youth and power. However, Chisora’s reputation as a battle-tested veteran means that fans won’t count him out entirely. A Dubois knockout win seems the most probable outcome, but Chisora’s durability makes an upset possible if the fight drags into later rounds.

Fans remain divided on whether this fight is truly necessary, given the looming impact of the Usyk-Fury showdown. Some believe the IBF should wait for the undisputed fight to conclude before mandating challengers, while others argue that keeping contenders active is crucial for the division’s longevity.

The Crossroads Moment for Both Fighters

Regardless of the outcome, this fight represents a crossroads moment for both Dubois and Chisora.

• For Dubois, a victory would re-establish him as a legitimate title contender, potentially setting up a rematch with Usyk or another world title opportunity.

• For Chisora, a win would be a stunning late-career resurgence, possibly putting him in contention for one final title shot before retirement.

With the heavyweight division in flux, the significance of this fight extends beyond just these two men. Should Usyk vacate the IBF title after the Fury fight, the winner of Dubois vs. Chisora could find themselves in a world championship bout sooner than expected.

Conclusion: A Fight With More at Stake Than Meets the Eye

The IBF’s move to order Dubois vs. Chisora may seem like a routine bout at first glance, but when placed in the context of the heavyweight division’s ongoing drama, it becomes far more consequential. The looming Usyk-Fury undisputed battle, the possibility of a vacant IBF title, and the personal stakes for both fighters create an environment where this fight could have lasting ramifications.

For now, the boxing world waits to see how everything unfolds. One thing is certain—whether it’s Dubois, Chisora, Usyk, or Fury, the heavyweight landscape is about to experience a significant shift, and fans should be ready for anything.