Daniel Dubois is gearing up for a highly anticipated rematch against Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed world heavyweight title on Saturday. The London native has been under fire since his rematch with Usyk last summer. He’s eager to prove how much he’s developed as a fighter. Much of his newfound success, he says, is due to the influence of his father, Stanley Dubois. From the very beginning of his career, Stanley has been an optimistic, transformational leader.
During that first fight, Dubois proved to be an easy target for Usyk, unable to respond to the champion’s powerful and consistent jab. Seemingly out of nowhere, he scored an incredible left hook that dropped Usyk in the fifth round. Sadly, the referee called it a low blow, and the fight concluded with Usyk by far the winner. Since that loss, Dubois has worked to develop his technique. This commitment resulted in three spectacular one-punch knockout wins — most notably a huge upset of heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua at Wembley last September.
Family Influence and Support
Dubois’ father, Stanley, also known as Dave, has played a significant role in shaping his son’s boxing career. Riz Khan, Dubois’ manager, spoke on this paternal backing. “Daniel’s success since the loss to Oleksandr Usyk is largely down to his father,” Khan stated. This family dynamic has continued to navigate the path Dubois has taken in his career and built a sense of self-worth within him.
Stanley Dubois advocates for an integrated approach to theory and practice. He even made the radical decision to home-school Daniel’s siblings, including Caroline Dubois, who is currently emerging as a champion in the boxing world on her own. That familial support goes beyond just being physically ready, though it includes the mental and emotional development needed, too.
Daniel Dubois shared these thoughts ahead of doing battle, “I’m on another planet now.” His confidence comes from months of rigorous preparation and the racecraft learned from his father and team operation. As he aims to dethrone the undisputed favourite once again during a career-defining rematch, Dubois’ confidence to dethrone Usyk is sky-high.
A New Strategy Against Usyk
As the two prepare for what should be a thrilling rematch, Dubois is aware of the ways that first fight has made an impact. He’s built different game plans to fight Usyk’s advantages and worked on his own game. The 27-year-old boxer, confident of victory, states that he is prepared for all the surprises that await him in the ring. “I’m ready to go through whatever I need to on Saturday and get those belts,” he declared.
With all of that in mind, Dubois understands that Usyk presents a unique challenge with his elite skill, athleticism, experience. At 38, there’s no question that Usyk is an imposing challenge. Even Usyk himself has said about his challenger, “I respect this guy, this young guy.” The mutual respect between the two fighters adds an intriguing layer to their rivalry as they prepare for the ring.
That poise shown by Dubois in the ring carries over to his training regimen and mentality. He understands that this rematch is about more than payback. It’s his opportunity to prove he can dominate one of boxing’s legendary fighters.
Looking Ahead
Promising heavyweight Daniel Dubois was supposed to defend his similar title against former world champ Joseph Parker back in February. Unfortunately, he was forced to withdraw at the very last minute due to illness. This latest decision has sparked rumors that he’s not prepared for the rematch with Usyk, which will come as a disappointment to many. Despite his hiatus, Dubois insists he’s all in on this determination to come back better than ever.
He hasn’t always been an elite athlete though, starting his boxing career at just 7 years old. By 2009 his amateur career was at its peak and he was European champion. He was the best athlete in the world and didn’t win a gold medal at the London Olympics, as everyone thought he would. His competitive fire seems to have only grown since then.
As fight night comes nearer, excitement is palpable in the boxing world. As a result, fans and analysts alike are in a tizzy. How else could they wait to see if Daniel Dubois can upset Oleksandr Usyk?
