Filip Hrgovic close to agreeing first world title defence against ‘big puncher’

IBF heavyweight champion Filip Hrgovic is close to finalizing his first title defense against mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez. The bout is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2027 in Zagreb, Croatia. Sanchez's manager Mike Borao confirmed talks are underway with Queensberry Promotions' George Warren, while Hrgovic acknowledged the mandatory status for a potential homecoming fight.

Hrgovic earned the IBF world title in August after staging a ninth-round comeback knockout against Moses Itauma. Sanchez enters the potential matchup following a second-round stoppage win over Richard Torrez Jr in May. While Hrgovic noted an interest in unification bouts against Daniel Dubois or Agit Kabayel, facing Sanchez remains the primary plan.