On November 26, 2024, the IBF ordered Martin Bakole (pictured) and Efe Ajagba to begin negotiations for a heavyweight eliminator to determine the IBF's mandatory contender position. Negotiations were to be concluded on or before December 11th. An agreement was not reached within the time frame allowed. Therefore, the IBF has ordered a purse bid to determine the promotional rights and boxers' purses for the but. It is scheduled for Thursday, January 30th at 12 noon. Bakole, ranked #4 by the IBF, is 21-1 and coming off a career-changing win over previoulsy undefeated Jared Anderson in August. Ajagba, ranked #7 by the IBF, is coming off a very close decision win over Guido Vianello last April. The current IBF heavyweight champion is Daniel Dubois, who is scheduled to defend his title against Joseph Parker next month.