Itauma ordered to hold talks over IBF title fight

The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has ordered British boxer Moses Itauma, 21, to enter negotiations with Cuba's Frank Sanchez for the vacant heavyweight world title. Last week, Oleksandr Usyk relinquished his IBF, WBA 'super', and WBC belts.

According to IBF championship rules, the organization wants its number-one-ranked Sanchez to face number-three contender Itauma. The parties have until 29 July to reach an agreement.

Itauma is scheduled to fight Croatia's Filip Hrgovic at London's O2 Arena on 29 August, a bout he has called his "toughest fight". He could withdraw from that contest or agree to fight Sanchez afterwards.

BBC Sport has contacted Itauma's promoter, Queensberry, for comment. Itauma claimed an impressive fifth-round stoppage over Jermaine Franklin in Manchester in March.

Although the IBF wants to arrange a bout for the vacant title, the WBC has upgraded interim champion Agit Kabayel to champion after Usyk gave up its belt. Two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk, who was required to fight Kabayel after being granted an exemption to face Rico Verhoeven in May, is now free to fight any opponent.