Moses Itauma offered IBF World heavyweight title fight

IBF #1 Frank Sanchez ordered to reach an agreement with #3 Moses Itauma

After Oleksandr Usyk vacated his heavyweight world titles at the weekend, the WBC immediately elevated their Interim champion Agit Kabayel to full champion. And now, the latest development has seen the IBF releases a statement on the status of their heavyweight championship.

It read: "Early on June 26, the International Boxing Federation (IBF) received official notice that Oleksandr Usyk was vacating his IBF Heavyweight Title.

"Throughout his distinguished career, Usyk has established himself as one of the sport's elite competitors and the IBF is honored to have recognized him as one of its world champions. His talent and pursuit of excellence have made a lasting impact on boxing and will continue to inspire future generations of fighters.

"The IBF wishes Oleksandr Usyk continued success in the pursuit of his future endeavors.

"In accordance with IBF Championship Rules, #1 ranked contender in the IBF Heavyweight division, Frank Sanchez, has been ordered to negotiate with #3 ranked contender Moses Itauma. They have until July 29 to reach an agreement."

Kent's Moses Itauma is unbeaten over amateur and pro, and widely regarded as the heavyweight division's future star. 

'The Cuban Flash' occupies the IBF top spot after defeating unbeaten Richard Torrez Jr. in May via second-round knockout in what was regarded as a 50-50 fight. His sole defeat came from the now-reigning WBC World heavyweight champ[ion, Kabayel, who is undefeated in 27 bouts.

The 33-year-old from Guantanamo, Cuba has scalped the likes of Junior Fa, Efe Ajagba, Joey Dawejko, while Briton Itauma, 21, has destroyed Jermaine Franklin and Dillian Whyte in back-to-back bouts.

Before the hottest prospect can think about stepping in the ring against Sanchez, however, he has another tough assignment first in Filip Hrgovic on August 29 at The O2 Arena in London. The Croatianwill be the Chatham combatant's hardest fight yet and will reveal whether or not Itauma will go on to rule next.