Olu Allen
In a seismic clash that will echo through the halls of heavyweight boxing history, Daniel Dubois toppled Anthony Joshua on Saturday, September 21, to retain the IBF world heavyweight title.
Dubois’ stock has skyrocketed with this stunning performance, firmly establishing him as the division’s new force to be reckoned with.
For Joshua, there is a rematch clause simmering in the shadows—a lifeline he may well decide to pull. If not, perhaps he’ll seek refuge in a lighter opponent to rebuild his once-formidable fortress.
Meanwhile, Dubois could find himself up against another top IBF contender like Joseph Parker or even wait in the wings for the victor of the highly anticipated Usyk vs Fury rematch.
An undisputed bout would set the boxing world ablaze, but, as always, it hinges on the whims of promoters.
From the opening bell, Dubois was a man possessed, coming out like a thunderstorm, and Joshua was caught in the eye of it.
A savage overhand right dropped Joshua in the first round, sending shockwaves through the arena.
From that moment on, the tempo was set, with Dubois pouring relentless pressure on the former champion, who found himself wobbling, teetering on the edge of defeat with each passing round.
By the third, Joshua’s legs had deserted him, betraying the proud warrior inside.
A missed opportunity by the referee, who should have issued a standing count after Joshua’s glove grazed the canvas, left fans wondering if the outcome could’ve been different.
Dubois, however, showed no mercy, continuing his assault as the fight wore on.
Joshua, to his credit, found a flicker of resistance in the fifth round, coming out with a barrage of punches that pushed Dubois into the corner. But the young lion was merely biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
And strike he did—a surgical right hand to Joshua’s jaw sent him crashing to the canvas once more, sealing the fate of the night and cementing Dubois’ rise to glory.
The heavyweight division has a king, and his name is Daniel Dubois.
