Nigerian heavyweight boxer Efe Ajagba has emerged as a potential challenger for Daniel Dubois’ IBF world title, following confirmation that Anthony Joshua’s rematch with the champion could be off until 2026.
The International Boxing Federation has granted Dubois the option of an optional title defence against any top 15 ranked boxer before April 22, with Ajagba, currently ranked eighth and holding the WBC silver title, emerging as a strong contender.
Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren confirmed that the champion would defend his title in February after Joshua’s camp indicated they would not be ready for an immediate rematch.
The 27-year-old Dubois, who claimed the title with a stunning fifth-round knockout of Joshua at Wembley Stadium in September, boasts an impressive record of 21 knockouts in 22 victories, while Ajagba has recorded 14 knockouts in 20 fights with just one defeat.
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn cited concerns over the quick turnaround for his fighter, who has earned over $200m in his career, including $75m from fights in 2024 alone.
The British-Nigerian is still nursing injuries from the September bout and is expected to return to action in the summer.
Warren further explained that Joshua would be “out of the picture” for a while due to mandatory challenger obligations.
IBF President Daryl Peoples confirmed the champion’s right to an optional defence, setting up a potential explosive matchup between Dubois and Ajagba, with both fighters closely matched in weight and power.
The winner could potentially secure a unification bout against the victor of the Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury rematch, scheduled for December 21 in Saudi Arabia, with the WBC, WBO, and WBA belts at stake.
