A REMATCH between Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua could be pushed back after the IBF ordered a heavyweight eliminator.
Dubois defended his IBF heavyweight title with a devastating knock-out of Joshua last month.
He dominated the fight after landing a huge blow on AJ in the first round, knocking the former champion to the canvas.
Joshua was comprehensively beaten but he aims to return to the ring and he has the option of a rematch.
But that clash could be pushed back after the IBF ordered a fight between Agit Kabayel and Martin Bakole to decide who will become the heavyweight challenger to Dubois.
The fighters have been told to make their availability known in the coming days, and there is even a chance the bout could take place before the end of the year.
However it is more likely the fight will happen in 2025, meaning Dubois vs Joshua 2 may have to wait until spring or summer.
Alternatively, the IBF could decide to sanction a rematch before ordering Dubois to face his mandatory challenger.
Dubois, 27, was previously the IBF challenger before taking the belt after Oleksandr Usyk vacated in June.
He then defended it for the first time against Joshua, with some suggesting AJ ought to hang up his gloves after the loss.
BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS
However the Brit, 34, said he will continue to fight as long there is an appetite amongst his fans, while promoter Eddie Hearn hinted at a decision being made soon.
Hearn said: “If it was up to AJ, straight rematch.
“But he will take the advice of me and 258 [Management] and Ben Davison and everybody and then he will make the decision.
“But it will be a decision that probably comes in the next couple of weeks.”
