Usyk stopped Dubois in the ninth round of their initial bout, but not before 'Triple D' landed a shot that put the Ukrainian on the canvas. The referee ruled it a low blow, allowing Usyk time to recover. Many saw it as Dubois' first real test at world level.
Since then, both fighters have made significant moves. Usyk became the undisputed champion by defeating Tyson Fury. He later vacated the IBF belt to honor his rematch with Dubois. The British fighter picked up that vacant title and defended it in style, knocking out Anthony Joshua in what he calls the best win of his career.
British boxing legend Naseem Hamed believes Dubois will come out on top in the rematch. In an interview with The Stomping Ground, 'Prince Nas' said:
"Triple D baby all day, every day. [...] Who's to say once he fights Usyk again he won't go out there and absolutely destroy him and bring our belts back to our country like it's supposed to be."
Hamed's confidence in Dubois stems from the first fight. He points out that Dubois is the only fighter who has hurt Usyk, putting him down and making him think. The former featherweight champ also noted that Usyk was down for 3-4 minutes in their previous encounter.
The outcome of this fight could shake up the heavyweight division. Usyk has said he's one fight away from retirement. If he wins and follows through, one or two belts might become vacant. Many heavyweights are waiting to see what happens in the aftermath.
The fight is set for next week at Wembley Stadium. Will Usyk cement his legacy as an all-time great? Or will Dubois pull off the upset and bring the belts back to Britain? We'll find out soon enough.