Nigerian heavyweight boxer Efe Ajagba is being considered as a potential challenger for Daniel Dubois’ IBF world title. This follows confirmation that Anthony Joshua’s rematch with Dubois might be postponed until 2026.

The IBF has granted Dubois the option of an optional title defense against a top 15-ranked opponent before April 22, with Ajagba, currently ranked eighth and holding the WBC Silver title, emerging as a leading contender.

Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren, confirmed the champion would defend his title in February, with Ajagba being a possible opponent if Anthony Joshua, who is recovering from injuries, is unavailable.

Dubois, 27, who claimed the IBF belt after a dramatic fifth-round knockout of Joshua in September, boasts an impressive 21 knockouts in 22 wins. Ajagba has a similarly solid record, with 14 knockouts in 20 fights and only one loss.

The winner of a potential Dubois vs. Ajagba fight could be in line for a unification bout against the winner of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury rematch, set for December 21 in Saudi Arabia.