Daniel Dubois still doesn’t want to let Uysk go, continuously calling him out in recent interviews.
Despite his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in 2023, Daniel Dubois remains determined to settle the score. The reigning IBF heavyweight champion has been vocal in interviews, persistently calling out Usyk and expressing his desire for a rematch. Dubois, who has significantly elevated his career since the loss, is determined to take revenge in 2025.
Dubois’ Remarkable Comeback
Since his loss to Oleksandr Usyk, Daniel Dubois has had a remarkable turnaround. In two high-profile bouts where he was considered the underdog, Dubois defeated Jarell Miller and Filip Hrgovic, showcasing his resilience and skill in the ring. These victories reestablished him as a serious contender in the heavyweight division.
Dubois further cemented his legacy by defeating Anthony Joshua at a sold-out Wembley Stadium, a fight that elevated his fame to new heights. With his reputation soaring, Dubois is now looking to achieve the ultimate goal: avenging his loss to Usyk and proving himself as the best in the division.
A Heated Rivalry with Usyk
Dubois has not been shy about his disdain for how their previous fight ended. The bout concluded with a TKO victory for Usyk, but not without controversy. In the fifth round, Dubois landed a body shot that many deemed legal, yet it was controversially ruled as a low blow. Dubois even appealed the result to the WBA, but his request was denied.
In a recent interview with BoxNation_TV, Daniel Dubois made his feelings clear: “It’s time for someone to stop him. The next time we meet, he won’t be so lucky. I’ll be too much for him.” Dubois’ fiery remarks have only fueled anticipation for a potential rematch.
Usyk’s Future Plans
While Dubois is eager for a rematch, Oleksandr Usyk seems to have other plans. The former cruiserweight champion has expressed interest in returning to the cruiserweight division to attempt a historic second reign. Speaking on the “3 Knockdown Rule” podcast, Usyk shared his struggles with maintaining heavyweight status.
“Preparing for heavyweight fights has been tough. I have to eat constantly to maintain weight, and it’s not something I enjoy. After a potential rematch, I’d like to go back to cruiserweight,” Usyk said.
This potential move complicates Dubois’ quest for revenge, as Usyk may choose to prioritize other challenges. However, Usyk’s decision could also hinge on the outcomes of upcoming heavyweight and cruiserweight bouts.
Dubois vs. Parker: A Crucial Step
Before any rematch with Usyk can materialize, Daniel Dubois must first face Joseph Parker on February 22. Parker, the IBF’s voluntary challenger, poses a significant threat, having recently defeated notable opponents such as Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang. These wins have reestablished Parker as a formidable force in the heavyweight division.
For Dubois, this fight is a pivotal moment. A victory would keep him on track for a potential rematch with Usyk and solidify his status as one of the top heavyweights. However, a loss could derail his ambitions and give Usyk even more reason to avoid another encounter.
The Road to Resolution
As for Oleksandr Usyk, his next moves may depend on the outcomes of other key fights. Usyk could await the results of the Dubois vs. Parker bout and the cruiserweight clash between Jai Opetaia and David Nyika before making a decision.
While Dubois is adamant about pursuing a rematch, the timing and circumstances may not align perfectly. Both fighters have significant hurdles to clear before revisiting their heated rivalry.
Conclusion
The rivalry between Daniel Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk continues to capture the attention of boxing fans worldwide. Dubois, fueled by a desire for revenge, has made it clear he is not ready to move on from their controversial first fight. Meanwhile, Usyk’s potential return to cruiserweight adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.
As both fighters prepare for their next challenges, the boxing world will be watching closely. Whether a rematch happens or not, the drama surrounding Dubois and Usyk ensures that their rivalry remains one of the sport’s most compelling storylines.