Daniel Dubois Vs. Frank Sanchez – ‘How Does It Play Out?'

Discussions are currently in progress to set up a heavyweight showdown between Daniel Dubois and Frank Sanchez for an IBF Heavyweight title eliminator. 

This would position the winner as the mandatory challenger for Undisputed Champion Oleksandr Usyk. For Dubois, he is seeking his first fight since suffering his second career defeat to Usyk in July, a stoppage loss that saw the Ukrainian unify the division once again, as he became undisputed. Dubois has made major changes following that setback, parting ways with longtime trainer Don Charles and moving to coach Tony Sims.

Sanchez is currently ranked fourth by the IBF. He is considered one of the most avoided fighters, as his co-manager, Mike Borao, indicated that Sanchez is prepared to travel to the UK for the fight, despite reports that several other top contenders, including Moses Itauma, Richard Torrez Jr., and Efe Ajagba, reportedly turned down the bout. Sanchez, who last stopped Ramon Olivas Echeverria in February 2025, represents a test for Dubois.

"We will sit down and obviously that’s gonna happen. He will come back in the new year and he will be in a big fight. Sanchez is a boxer-puncher, while Dubois is a pure puncher. The styles virtually guarantee an explosive fight. That said, three top boxers already avoided Frank for the eliminator, I’m cautiously optimistic Daniel won’t be the fourth," Warren said 

The Approach

The game plan for Dubois will be to demonstrate composure and controlled aggression, relying on his knockout power. Dubois must resist the urge to rush and instead use a steady, educated jab to close the distance. He will look to enforce his size and strength advantage, specifically aiming to land heavy, straight right hands and hooks to the body. If Dubois can successfully pressure Sanchez onto the ropes and unleash a sustained flurry, the fight could end quickly.

Sanchez is considered one of the most technically sound boxers in the division. He will aim to frustrate Dubois by staying just out of range, make him miss, and force him to reset. Sanchez’s movement will be key, creating angles to land quick, scoring shots and immediately pivoting away, much like his performance against Echeverria. The Cuban’s goal is to turn the fight into a grueling, demoralizing chess match. If he can survive the early power, Sanchez could use his ring IQ and stamina to chip away at Dubois.

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