The complication is timing. Hitchins is already under pressure from the IBF, which has moved to force a mandatory defense against undefeated contender Lindolfo Delgado. The sanctions body previously issued a premature injunction that Hitchins successfully appealed, creating a short voluntary window. That window is now closing.
Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn admitted the IBF had reissued the order for Hitchins Delgado, putting the champion on the clock. Once the timeline is formalized, Hitchins will either have to face Delgado or risk losing the title.
This context is what makes the Duarte conversations noteworthy. Duarte is not the mandatory. He represents a voluntary option that can be completed quickly if money and logistics match. From a business point of view, the struggle makes sense. Duarte is durable, experienced and carries a strong Mexican fan base. He is also coming off a long period of inactivity, which lowers the risk for a champion who wants to stay busy.
Fan reaction online was skeptical. Many see the Duarte discussion as an attempt to delay more difficult assignments, especially with Delgado waiting. Hitchins hasn’t helped that perception with public trash talk aimed at other competitors while avoiding clear mandatory commitments.
Delgado earned his position with a contested split decision win over Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela in November. The controversy did not change the result. The IBF recognizes Delgado as next, regardless of opinion.
This is how these situations usually play out. Promoters explore a voluntary, while the mandatory paperwork progresses in parallel. If the volunteers come together fast enough, it happens. If not, the mandatory becomes inevitable.
At this point, the Duarte talks seem like a final move before the door closes. If they fail, Hitchins has no remaining flexibility. The belt will force his hand, and Delgado waits.
From the outside it feels like a champion trying to buy time when time is no longer available.
