Earlier today, current IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois (21-2, 20 KOs) and former three-time world champion Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs) held their first press conference in London to announce their showdown on September 21. With Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) having vacated the IBF title yesterday, Dubois has been elevated to become the official champion.
Dubois stated, “I’ve always wanted to fight the best and beat the best to become the best. Joshua has been a dominant force in the division for a long time, but on fight night, I will become the King Slayer – that’s my goal, my mission right now. I’ve learned so much as a boxer, as a person, overcoming setbacks, moving towards the light, and constantly improving as an athlete and a professional.”
Joshua commented, “Dubois is my next opponent, and I congratulate him on his last win over Filip Hrgović (17-1, 14 KOs). I’ve been considering Dubois for some time, and for the next 12 weeks, I’ll be fully focused on this fight until I raise my hands in victory. I’ll prepare thoroughly and perform at my best on fight night, ready for the significant challenge ahead.”
Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren, remarked, “Two Brits fighting for the IBF World Title – it doesn’t get any better than that. These two might be the most fearsome punchers in the heavyweight division right now; it’s guaranteed to be a classic. This fight won’t go the distance; someone will get knocked out. One thing’s for sure, it’ll be an exhilarating spectacle.”
The odds are currently at 1-4 in favor of Joshua, who is widely favored. Dubois stopped Hrgović on June 2, but Joshua is considered a level above Hrgović in terms of both power and skills, with his recent training under Ben Davison seemingly taking his game to another level.
Dubois: I’ll be the King Slayer against Joshua. Author:Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced:https://www.sportsuefa.com/boxing-zone/dubois-ill-be-the-king-slayer-against-joshua.html