Boxing
Itauma eyed as title challenger for Sanchez after Usyk exit
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Moses Itauma is likely to challenge Frank Sanchez for the vacant IBF heavyweight title, per the latter's manager Mike Borao.
But the Briton has been warned it is "a bit too soon" to take a fight with the hard-hitting Cuban as he chases a maiden strap.
Oleksandr Usyk's decision to relinquish his unified crown has blown the division wide open, with multiple avenues for Itauma.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Borao confirmed that he anticipates a matchup for the IBF strap if the star beats Filip Hrgovic.
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"My expectation is that Moses Itauma could possibly be Frank Sanchez's opponent in the near future," he said on an encounter.
"But we will have to wait and see who he fights next for the vacant title. Moses is an incredible talent with [a] massive upside
"I myself am a fan of Moses, but a fight with Frank is probably a bit too soon, since he is young and there are other paths for him."
Itauma is well-ranked with all four of the sport's major governing bodies, theoretically setting him on a road to several options.
Newly elevated WBC champion Agit Kabayel could be one, while the WBA belt may be another depending on results elsewhere.
Junior strap holder Murat Gassiev is expected to face Tony Yoka next month, with a chance their bout could be given an upgrade.
Is Sanchez best path for Itauma?
DAZN News correspondent Andrew Steel
Moses Itauma has made no secret of the fact he believes he can be world champion by the end of 2026. Now, the map is open.
Save for the WBO strap held by Daniel Dubois - and which Itauma's friend Fabio Wardley aims to recapture - it is hunting season.
As it stands, Frank Sanchez and the IBF crown does appear to be the most obvious route, with the Cuban firmly in Itauma's sights.
The Briton previously passed on an eliminator bout with the star, perhaps a move he now regrets given the box-seat position granted.
Still, Agit Kabayel remains in play too, and with questions over how the WBA play their cards, there's no shortage of opportunities.
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