Hitchins Duarte talks surface as IBF closes in

The complication is timing. Hitchins is already under pressure from the IBF, who have decided to impose a mandatory defense against undefeated contender Lindolfo Delgado. The sanctioning body had previously issued a premature order which Hitchins successfully appealed, creating a short voluntary window. This window is closing.

Matchroom head Eddie Hearn admitted that the IBF had reissued the order for Hitchins Delgado, effectively putting the champion on the clock. Once the schedule is made official, Hitchins will either have to face Delgado or risk losing the title.

It is this context that makes Duarte’s talks remarkable. Duarte is not the obligatory one. It represents a voluntary option that could be finalized quickly if finances and logistics align. From a business perspective, the fight makes sense. Duarte is durable, experienced and has a strong Mexican fan base. He’s also coming off a long period of inactivity, which reduces the risks for a champion looking to stay busy.

The reaction from fans online was skeptical. Many view Duarte’s discussion as an attempt to delay more difficult missions, especially with Delgado waiting. Hitchins has not helped this perception with public speeches targeting other contenders while avoiding clear binding commitments.

Delgado earned his position with a contested split decision victory over Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela in November. The controversy did not change the result. The IBF recognizes Delgado as next, regardless of his opinion.

This is how these situations usually play out. The promoters are exploring a voluntary approach while the mandatory administrative formalities are moving forward in parallel. If the volunteer gets together fast enough, it happens. Otherwise, the obligatory becomes unavoidable.

At this point, Duarte’s talks feel like a final gesture before the door closes. If they fail, Hitchins has no flexibility left. The belt will force his hand, and Delgado is waiting.

From the outside it looks like a champion is trying to stall for time when time is no longer available.