IBF World Champion Filip Hrgovic has become a central figure in heavyweight boxing discussions, particularly after his recent win over Moses Itauma and his viral commentary on rivals. His outspoken personality has resonated with fight fans, leading to widespread calls for a rematch with WBO champion Daniel Dubois, the only professional to have defeated him.
Hrgovic’s Vision for Heavyweight Greatness
Beyond his immediate rivals, Hrgovic, known as ‘El Animal’, has weighed in on the sport’s all-time legends. He declared Lennox Lewis the “greatest heavyweight of all time”, according to Boxing News Online. The Croatian also expressed his preference for modern-era pound-for-pound legends such as Manny Pacquiao, Bernard Hopkins, and Oscar De La Hoya over Sugar Ray Robinson. Hrgovic stated, “Everyone say that Sugar Ray Robinson is pound-for-pound the best ever but it’s like old-school boxing. It cannot match the skill and speed of the 1980’s or 1990’s [fighters].”
Carl Froch Weighs In on a Potential Rematch
Following Daniel Dubois’ dominant two-round victory over Fabio Wardley, IBF heavyweight ruler Filip Hrgovic entered the ring to demand a rematch. Their previous encounter saw Dubois secure an eighth-round technical knockout win over two years ago. Boxing legend Carl Froch, speaking on his YouTube channel Froch on Fighting, shared his excitement for a second showdown, stating he is “really looking forward to” it. Froch praised Dubois’ recent performance, saying he is “on the crest of a wave” and noted Hrgovic’s appeal, describing him as a “likeable character” who “means business.” Recalling their first fight, Froch observed, “He [Hrgovic] was all over Daniel Dubois early, he was leathering him, putting shots together, catching Dubois all over the place. I was watching that fight thinking, ‘How is Dubois soaking this up?’, because Hrgovic can bang!” Froch concluded that Hrgovic “will give Daniel Dubois all that he wants in a rematch.”
Future Bouts and Fan Anticipation
Both champions are reportedly set for their next fights in February. Hrgovic is expected to defend his IBF title against Frank Sanchez on home soil in Zagreb. Meanwhile, Dubois’ next fight is also targeted for February. If both fighters emerge victorious, a highly anticipated rematch could be aligned for mid-2027, much to the delight of fans keen to see the two heavyweights face off again.