Itauma’s last performance against Jermaine Franklin offered reasons for both optimism and caution. He eventually stopped Franklin with his power, but not before absorbing several clean shots that showed he can be reached by an experienced heavyweight. Ring Magazine announced Tuesday that the bout has been upgraded to a vacant IBF title fight, raising the stakes against an opponent who brings years of experience and victories over proven contenders.

Winning the IBF title also comes with an immediate challenge. Frank Sanchez, the organization’s No. 1 contender, agreed to step aside to allow Itauma and Hrgovic to fight for the vacant championship. The hard-punching Cuban is now positioned to pursue the winner, leaving the new champion with little opportunity to settle into the role.

The IBF originally ordered Itauma to meet No. 1 contender Frank Sanchez for the vacant championship after Oleksandr Usyk relinquished the belt. Instead, Queensberry reached an agreement with Sanchez to step aside, clearing the way for the scheduled Itauma-Hrgovic fight to become a world title bout. Sanchez is expected to challenge the winner in the first defense.

Queensberry has skipped the traditional heavyweight development route by placing Itauma in a world title fight at 21. If he defeats Hrgovic, the reward is immediate. So is the next challenge, with Sanchez already waiting for the first defense.