Hrgovic Plots Stay-Busy Fight Before Sanchez Mandatory Deadline

Filip Hrgovic could squeeze in one more fight before his mandated shot at heavyweight glory. The Croatian contender is considering a stay-busy outing ahead of an IBF-ordered title bout with Frank Sanchez, which under the sanctioning body's rules must take place by March 1 next year, with the formal order expected on December 31. Hrgovic has his eye on the December 11 card headlined by Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua as a potential landing spot, with veteran kickboxer-turned-boxer Rico Verhoeven mentioned as a possible opponent for the tune-up. It would keep the heavyweight sharp while the mandatory machinery grinds forward. Sanchez, for his part, has made his intentions clear: he plans to exercise his mandatory right and has no interest in being bought off with step-aside money. The Cuban wants his shot at becoming his country's first heavyweight world champion — and he wants it around the turn of the year.