Daniel Dubois, Oleksandr Usyk, Frank Warren, Anthony Joshua, heavyweight boxing, IBF champion, rematch, boxing news

IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois is being urged by promoter Frank Warren to face Oleksandr Usyk in a rematch following his impressive victory over Anthony Joshua on Saturday. Dubois secured the title with a stunning five-round knockout of Joshua, showcasing his potential to dominate the heavyweight division.

Warren believes Dubois, 27, has “all the tools” necessary for success, particularly after his previous bout with Usyk in August 2023, where he lost by ninth-round stoppage. “He is a different Daniel Dubois now—more mature physically and mentally,” Warren stated on BBC 5 Live. “I’d like to see him fight Usyk again.”

Dubois became IBF champion after Usyk vacated the title in June, shortly after becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years by defeating Tyson Fury. Warren acknowledged that while Dubois has a rematch clause with Joshua, there are no obligations on Usyk’s side, but they would consider it.

Usyk was present at Wembley, taking a break from his training camp for his upcoming rematch with Fury on December 21. The previous fight between Dubois and Usyk featured controversy when Dubois knocked Usyk down, but the referee ruled it a low blow, allowing Usyk time to recover. Warren noted that Dubois has grown since that match, stating, “He is a different guy altogether, as you saw on Saturday night.”

Despite his loss, Joshua remains optimistic about his future in boxing. “We came up short but we have to look at the positives… It’s far from over,” he said in a social media video, reflecting on his journey in the sport.