Lennox Lewis believes Daniel Dubois will be the first to beat Oleksandr Usyk in their upcoming fight. The match, set for July 19 at Wembley Stadium, will see Dubois defend his IBF heavyweight belt against the undefeated Ukrainian champion.
Lewis, speaking to Queensberry Promotions, expressed confidence in Dubois's readiness for the challenge. The former heavyweight champion said:
"I'm thinking he's ready. He's been through the trials and tribulations. He's the king slayer. He's got the power. He's been there before. He was just there, he knocked [Usyk] down, so he knows what he needs to do."
Usyk's impressive record includes gold at the London 2012 Olympics, becoming undisputed cruiserweight champion in 2018, and achieving the same feat at heavyweight in 2024. He's beaten top names like Derek Chisora, Anthony Joshua (twice), and Tyson Fury (twice), with Fury retiring after their second bout in December 2024.
Dubois, nicknamed "DDD", has bounced back strongly since his loss to Usyk in August 2023. He's racked up three knockout wins, defeating Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and Anthony Joshua. These victories earned him the IBF belt he'll defend against Usyk.
Lewis pointed out Dubois's power and experience as key factors. He noted that Dubois had previously knocked Usyk down, suggesting this knowledge will be crucial in the rematch.
British former heavyweight champion Frank Bruno joins Lewis in backing Dubois, hoping for a win from the young fighter.
While Lewis acknowledges the difficulty of the task ahead, he remains confident in Dubois's ability to dethrone the undefeated Usyk.
The fight promises to be a major event, with promoter Frank Warren aiming for a record crowd at Wembley Stadium.
