Chisora said Dubois deserves favorite status because of what he achieved against Wardley.

“Right now, with the odds, the favorite is Daniel; he is the world champion. So, I think Daniel [will win], but we know Itauma and how he is,” said Chisora to Secondsout.

The Wardley fight also left another debate hanging over Dubois heading into any possible fight with Itauma. Dubois showed toughness by recovering from two knockdowns, but he also showed the same defensive vulnerabilities that have followed him throughout parts of his career.

That could become a serious issue against a heavyweight puncher like Itauma, who has rapidly gained attention for his speed and finishing ability.

At the same time, Itauma still lacks the experience Dubois now carries after fights against Oleksandr Usyk, Joe Joyce, Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and Wardley.

Itauma, 21, is expected to return on August 8 at the O2 Arena before a possible United States debut later this year. A fight against Dubois is already being viewed as one of the biggest heavyweight events that could be built in Britain.

There is also the business side of the situation. Promoter Frank Warren may have little reason to rush two of his top heavyweight names into the ring together while both continue increasing their value separately.

A Dubois victory over Itauma would place him in a position for another major payday at heavyweight, especially if the division eventually moves toward a post-Usyk period over the next year.

Chisora still sees Dubois as the safer pick, even with Itauma’s rapid rise continuing to build pressure around the heavyweight division.