Dillian Whyte criticizes Anthony Joshua: ‘Avoiding a rematch with Daniel Dubois is a big mistake!’

Dillian Whyte has taken aim at Anthony Joshua, claiming that the former two-time world champion has made a “huge mistake” by not pursuing an immediate rematch with Daniel Dubois. In a decision that has stirred up controversy, Joshua has chosen not to face Dubois again following his fifth-round defeat, instead leaving Dubois to defend his IBF heavyweight title against Joseph Parker in February.
Whyte’s Perspective on Joshua’s Decision
Dillian Whyte, who has a history with Anthony Joshua, both as an amateur and professional, believes Joshua’s decision could harm his legacy. Speaking to Sky Sports News, Whyte did not hold back in expressing his concerns.
“He’s made a big mistake not taking the rematch with Dubois,” Whyte said. “It’s a world title fight, a big payday, and the perfect opportunity to bounce back.”
Whyte pointed to his own career as an example of the importance of immediate rematches. After his shocking defeat to Alexander Povetkin, Whyte demanded an immediate rematch and successfully avenged his loss.
“When I lost to Povetkin, I interrupted Eddie Hearn’s live interview to ask for a rematch. Nothing else mattered until I beat him. It’s a mindset issue,” Whyte added.
Joshua’s Next Moves Amid Heavyweight Turmoil
While Daniel Dubois prepares to face Joseph Parker, Anthony Joshua is left without a clear path forward. The anticipated mega-fight with Tyson Fury has fallen through after Fury announced his retirement, leaving Joshua to consider other options in a crowded heavyweight division.
For Whyte, the decision to avoid an immediate rematch with Dubois sends the wrong message. He believes the memes and criticism Joshua faces for the Wembley defeat will continue to haunt him until he redeems himself.
The Stakes for Anthony Joshua’s Legacy
Anthony Joshua’s legacy as a heavyweight champion has come under scrutiny in recent years. Once considered the face of boxing, Joshua’s losses to Oleksandr Usyk and Dubois have raised questions about his ability to remain competitive at the highest level.
According to Dillian Whyte, reclaiming a world title and proving himself in the ring are crucial for Joshua’s long-term reputation.
“He’ll have to live with the memes about getting his face smashed in at Wembley,” Whyte said. “If he wants to be remembered as one of the greats, he needs to show the mindset of a champion. Right now, he’s not doing that.”
Whyte’s Own Aspirations
As for Dillian Whyte, he’s not done with his own ambitions in the ring. Having faced both Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury in the past, Whyte is eager for another shot at both men.
“I want to fight AJ and Tyson again because they both beat me,” Whyte admitted. “I’ve learned from those fights, and I’m ready to prove myself.”
Conclusion
Dillian Whyte’s criticism of Anthony Joshua highlights the challenges Joshua faces in maintaining his status as a top heavyweight contender. By avoiding a rematch with Daniel Dubois, Joshua risks damaging his legacy and missing a crucial opportunity to redeem himself. With the heavyweight division in flux, every decision matters, and Joshua’s next moves will be pivotal in determining his place in boxing history.