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Will Torrez Jr. secure Usyk shot with make-or-break Sanchez encounter?
Richard Torrez Jr. might not be the heavyweight name on everybody's lips right now - but he might be after Saturday night.
The Tokyo 2020 favourite figures halfway down the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk and Rico Verhoeven's Giza blockbuster.
Having only ventured beyond United States borders for the first time in his pro career last November, it is another big step.
DAZN FACE OFF: Usyk vs. Verhoeven
Watch dramatic clash here
Yet it is one that Torrez appears more than ready for, given his high standing among the sport's major sanctioning bodies.
Ranked in the upper echelons by all four of the WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO, he appears primed to move towards a title shot.
Now, as he takes an IBF eliminator Frank Sanchez, the question is this - just how long will it be before he gets a chance?
Will Torrez Jr. face Usyk if he beats Sanchez?
Theoretically, victory over Sanchez would place Torrez Jr. directly in line to face Usyk in the aftermath of their next bouts.
His status as the IBF's preferred choice should ensure he moves further up their rankings and onto the Ukrainian's turf.
Yet the thorny politics of the heavyweight division means that this isn't quite as straightforward as Torrez likely hopes.
For one, Usyk's unified status means that he has other challengers to field, with WBC interim holder Agit Kabeyel up front.
For another, there remains the chance that the veteran bides his time for the winner of Daniel Dubois-Fabio Wardley II.
Who could Torrez Jr. fight beyond Usyk?
Should Usyk pass on any potential bout, Torrez Jr. faces an uncertain path that hinges very much on the IBF's own call.
If the sanctioning body allow the Ukrainian to retain his strap, then the American will likely want to keep himself active.
Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing
That could lead him to a lower-ranked contender while he bides time, such as Justis Huni or Efe Ajagba - still live threats.
Alternatively, if the IBF were to strip Usyk and award Torrez Jr. the belt, his options suddenly become far bigger prospects.
Ex-champion Deontay Wilder could fancy a crack, while the winner of Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua may be persuaded too.
Will Torrez Jr. face Itauma in 2026?
Truthfully, if Torrez Jr. does beat Sanchez and find himself elevated should Usyk vacate, a standout contender will be waiting.
Queensberry/Leigh Dawney
Ranked one place behind him with the IBF, and in terrific positions elsewhere, Moses Itauma appears the most likely prospect.
Queensberry Promotions boss Frank Warren has made no secret that he wants the Briton to fight for a world title after August.
Should the latter come through his bout then - likely against Agit Kabayel - then he will train his sights on who has the crown.
If Torrez Jr. has benefitted from an Usyk no-show, then the American will be in the crosshairs for what could be a thrilling contest.
Watch Usyk vs Verhoeven only on DAZN
Oleksandr Usyk puts his unbeaten record on the line against Rico Verhoeven on Saturday, May 23, in front of the Egyptian pyramids, live and exclusive on DAZN. Buy as a one-off PPV or included, along with Zayas vs. Ennis (June 27) PPV, with a DAZN Ultimate Tier subscription.
