Moses Itauma passes on title eliminator despite fast-track chance to face Oleksandr Usyk

Moses Itauma has passed on an IBF final eliminator contest with Frank Sanchez that would have placed him in pole position to challenge Oleksandr Usyk for the full title in 2026.

The Briton dispatched Dillian Whyte inside one round this August, and has already been confirmed by Queensberry Promotions boss Frank Warren to fight again this December.

But the 20-year-old's next test will not come with Sanchez, who was previously set to face Efe Ajagba before the latter also passed on an encounter with the impressive Cuban.

The latter had been seeking an opponent for a bout that would elevate the winner into title territory against Usyk, with co-manager Mike Borao revealing Itauma rejected a clash.

"Boxers are not lining up to fight a healthy Frank Sanchez," he told Sky Sports News. "Moses is a superstar prospect, but likely a bit too green for Frank.Torrez is explosive.

"[He] would make for an entertaining fight. Frank notified the IBF he is available. No matter the opponent, Frank is determined and will become IBF mandatory challenger."

Usyk currently holds the IBF title, having stopped Daniel Dubois in five rounds at Wembley Stadium this July to become heavyweight undisputed champion for a second time.

Questions over its key challengers have reigned for much of the year however, with Derek Chisora previously considered first in line after an eliminator win over Otto Wallin.

The veteran is now set to contest his 50th - and reportedly final - bout this December, likely on the same bill as Itauma, who remains searching for his next opponent too.

Watch the biggest fights and best fighters with a DAZN subscription

A DAZN subscription provides access to over 185 fights a year across a range of combat sports from the world's best promoters.

For pricing and more information, click here