This bout marked the second time the two heavyweights faced each other. In their first encounter in August 2023, Usyk also won by knockout, but in the ninth round. Since then, Dubois had shown signs of improvement. He matured as a man, honed his boxing skills, and scored three impressive knockout victories at the top level.
However, Usyk proved too much for the British challenger. The champion came out fast, landing three sharp jabs right off the bat. He controlled the fight from start to finish, mesmerizing Dubois with his footwork and feints. Usyk picked off his opponent with well-timed shots, eventually securing two knockdowns in the fifth round before the referee waved off the contest.
Dave Allen, a fellow British heavyweight who has sparred with both fighters, offered his thoughts on the match. Speaking to talkSPORT Boxing, Allen criticized Dubois's corner management during the fight.
"Daniel Dubois' father should not be giving any instructions. He's not a boxing coach. It was a shambles, it went all wrong for Daniel."
Allen pointed out that Dubois's father was shouting instructions, seemingly taking over from coach Don Charles. He also expressed disappointment in Dubois's performance:
"He was yeah. This is a world champion with his hands by his chest, falling over his feet, couldn't even cut the ring off, I thought he looked poor."
Dubois will now look to rebuild his career and come back stronger. As for Usyk, his next fight will likely be a mandatory defense against Joseph Parker. The champion continues to cement his status as one of the top heavyweights in the world.