Efe Ajagba nears world title shot as IBF grants Dubois ‘optional defense’
By Tosin Omojola
Nigerian knockout specialist Efe Ajagba may be closing in on a shot at the world heavyweight title. The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has granted current champion Daniel Dubois the option of an “optional title defense,” allowing him to select any of the top 15 ranked boxers, which includes Ajagba, for a mandatory defense.
Dubois’s camp has stated that it’s uncertain whether Anthony Joshua will activate an immediate rematch clause against Dubois.
According to Sky Sports, discussions for a rematch in early 2025 are on hold, with Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, voicing concerns over the quick turnaround. This delay could open the door for Ajagba to step in as Dubois’s next opponent.
IBF President Daryl Peoples confirmed that Dubois can choose any ranked fighter for an optional defense before April 22, with Ajagba positioned as a strong contender. Ajagba, ranked 8th by the IBF, boasts a record of 20 fights with 14 knockouts and only one loss, making him a formidable opponent for Dubois, who has achieved 21 knockouts in his 22 victories.
A showdown between Ajagba and Dubois could offer an electrifying matchup, with both fighters closely matched in weight and power.
Dubois’s promoter, Frank Warren, has also affirmed that if Joshua isn’t ready for a rematch, Dubois will defend his title against another top-ranked fighter.
“He is the champion, and it’ll be done on his terms,” Warren told Sky Sports. “Daniel will defend his title in February, and if it’s not Joshua, then it’ll be against someone ranked in the top five.”
Hearn admitted that Joshua might need more time to prepare for a second bout against Dubois, citing minor injuries as a reason for the delay.
“Our concern at the moment is timing,” Hearn explained to Sky Sports. “If we’re going to fight him in February, we need to start camp in about three weeks. It’s quite a fast turnaround.”
Under IBF regulations, the champion is required to defend his title within nine months against the leading available contender. However, the IBF also allows Dubois to pursue a unification fight after this mandatory defense. This could potentially lead to a historic bout against the winner of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury rematch, scheduled for December 21 in Saudi Arabia, with the WBC, WBO, and WBA belts on the line.
If Dubois does opt for an optional defense, the matchup with Ajagba could offer the heavyweight division a fresh, highly anticipated clash, bringing another Nigerian contender into the title picture.
