# Filip Hrgović and Frank Sanchez heavyweight title dispute

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/filip-hrgovi-and-frank-sanchez-heavyweight-title-dispute
> Updated: 2026-10-06T17:20:47.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Following his technical knockout victory over Moses Itaumu to claim the IBF world heavyweight title, Filip Hrgović is preparing for a mandatory defense against challenger Frank Sanchez.

Sanchez, who previously stepped aside to allow the Itaumu bout to proceed, has expressed readiness to fight, with initial indications suggesting a match in December or January. Promoter Frank Warren has since confirmed that negotiations are underway to organize the title defense in Croatia, likely in early 2027. While the exact venue is not finalized, Arena Zagreb is a leading candidate for the event.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-06: Filip Hrgović to defend IBF heavyweight title in Croatia

Heavyweight champion Filip Hrgović is scheduled to defend his IBF title against Frank Sanchez in Croatia, with negotiations targeting an early 2027 date.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/filip-hrgovi-to-defend-ibf-heavyweight-title-in-croatia

### 2026-10-01: Filip Hrgović prepares for IBF title defense against Frank Sanchez

IBF heavyweight champion Filip Hrgović prepares to defend his title against mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez, aiming for future belt unification.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/filip-hrgovi-prepares-for-ibf-title-defense-against-frank-sanchez

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Cite as: Filip Hrgović and Frank Sanchez heavyweight title dispute. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/filip-hrgovi-and-frank-sanchez-heavyweight-title-dispute