The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has announced a crucial eliminator bout between Martin Bakole and Agit Kabayel, a decision that carries significant implications for heavyweight Anthony Joshua’s ambitions of an immediate rematch against Daniel Dubois. This matchup is intended to identify the mandatory challenger for Dubois’ IBF title, creating a potential delay for the much-anticipated showdown between Joshua and Dubois, which fans are eagerly awaiting. Bakole, 31, has recently demonstrated his prowess in the ring by impressively defeating Frank Sanchez, while Kabayel, 32, achieved a pivotal knockout victory over Jared Anderson. The rising status of both fighters in the IBF rankings has made their bout a focal point in the boxing calendar, generating interest as they compete for a shot at Dubois.
Promoter Ben Shalom has hinted at a possible December date for this eliminator, though concrete details remain unconfirmed. The news, initially communicated by boxing commentator Michael Benson via social media, underscores the fact that both Bakole and Kabayel are coming off career-best performances, adding further excitement to an already compelling narrative in heavyweight boxing. The successful outcome of this fight will play a decisive role in shaping the future of the heavyweight landscape, particularly concerning the title picture involving Dubois.
For Joshua, 34, the urgency of reclaiming his IBF belt has intensified following his shocking knockout loss to Dubois in September. In that match, Joshua was knocked down four times before succumbing to a fifth-round knockout, a result that sent shockwaves throughout the boxing community. While Dubois, 27, is expected to be unavailable until February due to recovery, any additional delays—particularly due to the Bakole-Kabayel bout—could jeopardize Joshua’s plans for a prompt return to the ring. Promoter Eddie Hearn has noted Joshua’s determination to pursue the rematch, indicating that the fighter is unlikely to be swayed from this objective.
Despite Joshua’s unwavering focus on a rematch with Dubois, the reality of the boxing schedule may compel him to consider alternative opponents if the timeline for the rematch continues to stretch. Hearn acknowledges the complexities of the situation, as Joshua aims to ensure his activity in the ring during this crucial juncture of his career. Potential matchups with notable fighters such as Deontay Wilder present additional opportunities for Joshua, especially if ongoing negotiations or fights—such as the much-discussed clash between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury—lead to further delays in the heavyweight division.
With Bakole and Kabayel poised to compete for their chance at Dubois, Joshua must now confront the challenging decision of whether to bide his time for a rematch or seek to remain active as he nears the twilight of his boxing career. The stakes are high, not only for Joshua but also for the dynamics of the heavyweight division. As major boxing events are set to unfold, the implications of each fighter’s performance will reverberate throughout the industry.
Looking forward, the anticipated rematch between Joshua and Dubois is expected to take place in Saudi Arabia as part of the Riyadh Season festivities, further adding to the event’s significance. As the heavyweight division undergoes these critical matchups, the outcomes will undoubtedly influence the trajectories of both Joshua and the emerging contenders like Bakole and Kabayel. The current landscape suggests a pivotal period ahead for heavyweight boxing, where each fighter’s next move may determine their futures in the sport. As excitement builds for these upcoming bouts, the boxing community remains on edge, eager to witness how the unfolding scenarios will reshape the heavyweight championship picture.
