Joshua, who entered the ring as the favorite, struggled from the start. Dubois floored him in the first round, setting the tone for the rest of the fight. AJ spent most of the bout trying to survive Dubois' onslaught.
In the fifth round, Joshua almost turned things around. But Dubois landed a big shot that ended the fight and Joshua's dreams of reclaiming a world title.
After the fight, an emotional but eloquent Joshua spoke at the press conference. He remained positive despite the loss:
"Firstly, always walk with your head high. We took a shot at success and came up short unfortunately. We rolled the dice for the third time. That's 13 world title fights – not every one has been successful but every one has been entertaining. We're trying to create history for British boxing and I think we're doing that. I appreciate all the press, media, the fans aren't here but I thank them through you guys …"
Joshua made it clear he's not ready to hang up his gloves:
"Probably you're asking do I still want to continue fighting. Of course I want to continue fighting. We took a shot at success and we came up short. And what does that mean now? We gonna run away? We're going to live to fight another day. That's what I am, I'm a warrior."
The former champ also showed good sportsmanship, praising Dubois for his performance:
"Also we have to give credit to Daniel. Even though when I sign up to fight opponent I don't really like them in my head anymore, but now it's done I take my hat off to him and say well done to him and his team. And also to my team as well for the way they prepared me. I had a few mistakes in there but that's the name of the game – fine margins can cost you at the top level. So thank you."
Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, mentioned there's a rematch clause in the contract. AJ will have to decide if he wants to use it for another shot at Dubois.
This fight marks Joshua's 13th world title bout. While he didn't win this time, his efforts continue to make an impact on British boxing history.