Oleksandr Usyk facing Daniel Dubois for a second time has become as big a fight as the Tyson Fury return on December 21.
The fact Dubois pulverized Anthony Joshua in an absolute demolition and retained his IBF belt puts him firmly in the frame to fight Usyk next year. In addition, the cementing factor that Usyk vs. Dubois II could be for the undisputed crown, and interest in the fight could be spiked even beyond Usyk vs. Fury II.
Usyk was the clear winner against Fury in May, not to mention he almost knocked out the ‘Gypsy King,’ and Dubois looks a more dangerous prospect. Dubois could then have the opportunity to become the UK’s first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis, meaning Wembley could even be an option to host due to the four-belt incentive.
Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren doesn’t mind staging a Dubois vs Joshua rematch in the interim while Usyk and Fury sort out their differences.
“I don’t know. I think people may still [want to see it],” Warren told talkSPORT. “If he comes back and gets a win, who knows? Tyson’s got his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk on December 21, but I fancy him to come through it. This division is alive, losers fighting losers and winners fighting winners. The heavyweight division’s never been so lively.”
‘DDD’ is also on board, telling White and Jordan, “Yeah, if that happens down the line, then yes. If that happens next, then yeah. I want to go for it.
“I want to do even better next time. But I know where I need to improve as well, so as a champion and a fighter, I want to prove people wrong every time, and that’s what we have been doing.
“I think I would. I can do a lot better than that. It was a great showing, but I believe I’ll be more clinical next time. More sharp, everything.”
Warren concluded, “Daniel doesn’t have a rematch in his contract. But there is one in AJ’s contract. If they want to do it, I haven’t got a problem with a rematch, and the terms are all okay. But it is too soon.
“He needs to savor the moment. He has shown what he is all about now fighting four world-ranked fighters this year.”
Due to Joshua’s severe beating, public demand is lower than expected. However, Dubois has few options until after the Usyk vs. Fury saga concludes.
Usyk vs Dubois II for the undisputed crown is undoubtedly the most significant heavyweight fight unless Fury can pull off the upset.
The views expressed in this article are the opinions of Phil Jay. Learn more, read all articles from the experienced boxing writer, and follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
