Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois are set to face off again this weekend at Wembley Stadium. The Ukrainian champion will defend his undisputed world heavyweight title against the British challenger in a rematch of their controversial bout from last August.
Usyk stopped Dubois in the ninth round of their first encounter in Poland. The fight wasn't without drama. Dubois knocked Usyk down with a body shot, but the referee ruled it a low blow. This decision gave Usyk time to recover and ultimately secure the victory.
Since then, both fighters have made significant strides. Usyk, now nearing 40, has beaten Tyson Fury twice on points and claimed all four heavyweight belts. He vacated the IBF title to make this rematch happen.
Dubois, at 27, has grown both as a man and a fighter. He's won three tough tests against top opponents, stopping Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and Anthony Joshua. These wins earned him the vacant IBF belt.
The young Brit's incredible heavyweight power could be the key to early round success against Usyk. But the champion's skill and experience can't be overlooked.
In a recent interview, Usyk was asked about the biggest puncher he's faced. His answer might surprise some:
"I think it's Derek. Crazy Derek."
Usyk was referring to Derek Chisora, whom he fought in 2020 in just his second heavyweight contest. While Usyk won on points, Chisora set a blueprint for fighting the Ukrainian that hasn't been matched since.
The stakes couldn't be higher for this rematch. The winner will walk away as the undisputed world heavyweight champion. For Usyk, a victory would make him a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion, adding to his undisputed cruiserweight title.
With both fighters having something to prove, this rematch promises to be an exciting clash of styles and generations in the heavyweight division.
