Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois are set to clash in a big British heavyweight showdown. The two power punchers will face off for the IBF world title on September 21 at Wembley Stadium.
Both fighters have bounced back from losses to Oleksandr Usyk, making this match-up even more interesting. Joshua has won his last three fights by stoppage, rebuilding after defeats to Andy Ruiz Jr and Usyk. Dubois, on the other hand, has proven his heart in the ring with victories over Fillip Hrgovic and Jarrell Miller following losses to Joe Joyce and Usyk.
Joe Joyce, who has been in the ring with both fighters, shared his thoughts on the upcoming bout. Joyce knows what that is like having sparred with Joshua, and he's fought Dubois professionally.
"Raw power Dubois. But Joshua has that power too. It's maybe a bit quicker. I remember him putting the hands together a bit more. Dubois is improving as well also we're going to have to see on the night."
Joyce couldn't pick a clear winner, noting that both fighters are evenly matched in many areas. He pointed out that Dubois might have an edge in speed due to his youth, but Joshua's experience could be a crucial factor.
"Dubois is younger so [speed] could be Dubois but it's close. [Endurance] I'm not sure. I think they're quite equal in their attributes. I'd edge with 'AJ' with his experience. But I would say, Dubois hits him with the raw power. They have both had their ups and downs. In this fight, they will have a lot of heart and determination to beat each other so I think that would be quite equal."
Joyce also praised Dubois' jab, describing it as "powerful like a back hand". The former title challenger believes the fight could go either way and is excited to see how it unfolds.
"There's a lot of variables. I'm just excited to see what happens. As soon as the fight starts you can kind of tell. It's whoever gets hit first really … They've both got good coaches for them for this fight, so it's a real head-to-head. May the best man win."
The all-British heavyweight fight has generated a lot of excitement in the boxing world. It's a chance for both fighters to prove themselves at the highest level and potentially set up even bigger fights down the line.
As for Joyce himself, he's looking to rebuild after a tough year that saw him lose twice to Zhilei Zhang and most recently to Derek Chisora. The upcoming Joshua-Dubois fight serves as inspiration for him to get back on track in the heavyweight division.
