The highly anticipated heavyweight unification bout between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois has been officially confirmed for July 19 at Wembley Stadium.
This clash will see Usyk, the reigning WBA, WBO, and WBC champion, defend his titles against Dubois, who holds the IBF belt.
Usyk, undefeated in 23 professional fights, is aiming to reclaim the IBF title he vacated in 2024 due to a rematch clause with Tyson Fury.
Dubois, who was upgraded to IBF champion after defeating Anthony Joshua in September 2024, is determined to prove himself on the grandest stage.
A Rivalry Rekindled
The two fighters previously met in August 2023 in Warsaw, where Usyk secured a ninth-round stoppage victory. However, the fight was not without controversy. Dubois’ camp expressed frustration over a fifth-round knockdown that was ruled a low blow by the referee.
Dubois has since vowed revenge, claiming he was denied a legitimate victory.
“I should have won the first fight and was denied by the judgement of the referee,” said Dubois. “I will make no mistake this time around in front of my people at the national stadium in my home city.”
Usyk, who became the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era after defeating Tyson Fury in May 2024, is equally motivated.
“I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to once again fight for the undisputed championship,” he said. “Thank you, Daniel, for taking care of my IBF belt—now I want it back.”
What’s at Stake?
This bout marks the first time an undisputed heavyweight title fight will take place on British soil. The stakes are high, with all four major belts on the line. Dubois, riding high on a string of knockout victories, including wins over Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic, believes he is a more dangerous fighter now.
“I’m a superior and more dangerous fighter now, and Usyk will find this out for himself on July 19,” Dubois declared.
Meanwhile, Usyk has been in intense preparation, seeking sparring partners through his Ready to Fight app. The Ukrainian’s camp is confident in his ability to retain his titles and solidify his legacy.
The fighters will face off at a press conference on Tuesday, where they are expected to share their final thoughts ahead of this historic clash.
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