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Manager Mike Borao says Frank Sanchez hopes to challenge Oleksandr Usyk for the IBF world heavyweight title ‘as soon as possible’.
The Cuban knocked out Richard Torrez Jr. in explosive style on the undercard of USIC’s fight against Egypt’s Rico Verhoeven in an eliminator bout that secured Sanchez’s status as the mandatory challenger for Sanchez’s IBF belt.
Sanchez’s only loss came against Agit Kabael – the WBC mandatory challenger for a belt held by Usyk in 2024 – when he was hampered by a knee injury, but Borao believes his fighter has reaffirmed his status as a top contender.
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Oleksandr Usyk survived an incredible performance from kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven as the fight was stopped with seconds left in the 11th round. Highlights courtesy of DAZN and Ring Magazine.
“Frank sent a strong reminder that he is one of the most dangerous fighters in the division,” Borao said Sky Sports.
“An injury temporarily slowed his pace, but he is now back in top form and ready to make the most of his mandatory conditions.
“I’m currently reviewing the options (for Sanchez’s next fight) with my partner Lupe Valencia. As the mandatory challenger, our primary goal is to fight Usyk as soon as possible, but we’ll see how it develops over the next few weeks.”
Despite his mandatory status, Borao remains open to the idea of Sanchez fighting another heavyweight challenger as Usyk considers the next step in his career, which could be a Verhoeven rematch or a WBC title defense against Kabael.
Frank has no problem staying active against elite competition while waiting for his world title shot.
He added: “In the meantime, if fighting top heavyweights like (Daniel) Dubois, (Deontay) Wilder, (Anthony) Joshua, (Tyson) Fury, Verhoeven, (Francis) Ngannou or others, Frank has no problem staying active against elite competition while waiting for his world title shot.”
Usyk had to deliver a dramatic 11th round stoppage of Verhoeven to preserve his status as the No. 1 fighter in the top division.
Sanchez, with trainer Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in his corner, could provide another tough challenge for the 39-year-old Ukrainian.
Sanchez will relish the opportunity to challenge Usyk
“Usic is a generational talent who has beaten the best,” Borao said. “He may have taken his last opponent lightly.
“That said, Frank is still improving under Eddie Reynoso, while Usic has probably peaked.
“We hope Frank gets a chance to box Usyk, but ultimately that decision is up to him.”
Watch Chris Billam-Smith vs Ryan Rosicky at the Zuffa Boxing Show in Bournemouth on June 6 live on Sky Sports.
