IBF world heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois is resolute in his declaration: “I will get my revenge.” He shared this during a recent interview where he discussed his significant upcoming fight, his motivations, and his perhaps less-than-enthusiastic view on the three weekly runs expected in camp, despite his new sponsorship with Brooks Running.
This remarkably open conversation took place six weeks before what is poised to be the biggest fight of his career so far. The setting was the impressive Farm Gym, where Dubois trains under the guidance of Don Charles. In the distance, clearly visible over the champion`s shoulder, were the famous arches of Wembley Stadium – the very venue where he intends to settle the score with Oleksandr Usyk on July 19.
“It feels quite special, thinking about that, seeing Wembley out there every day,” Dubois commented. “That`s the core focus. Achieving my revenge and proving everyone wrong. To demonstrate to all those who doubt me, and to silence them.”
The IBF champion carries himself with noticeable confidence, yet entirely without arrogance. “Dynamite,” as he`s nicknamed, now possesses a strong sense of self-assurance, seemingly cemented by his decisive knockout victory over Anthony Joshua last year.
Dubois celebrates with his team after beating Joshua at Wembley.
Indeed, a distinct sense of calm was present among everyone in his camp, from his skilled younger brother Solomon to trainer Don Charles and the fitness team members. His fitness staff, in particular, suggested that Dubois is not only in the best condition of his career but possibly better than any athlete they`ve ever worked with.
“I can hardly wait,” Dubois stated. “My entire career trajectory has been building towards this moment, so it`s monumental for me. My ambition is to become a historical figure, unify all the belts, and then feel that my boxing journey is complete.”
The dedicated work being put in by Team Dubois makes it clear they thoroughly understand Usyk`s in-ring approach, having learned from their previous encounter. From utilizing sparring partners and pad holders whose build and movement patterns resemble the Ukrainian`s, and the ability to train for extended periods exceeding 18 rounds, it is evident that no detail is being overlooked.
“The results will speak for themselves,” he asserted. “When people watch me in the ring, they will see the depth of training I`ve undergone. It`s a steady process. Just consistently grinding away every single day.”
It`s often said that a fight isn`t won beforehand but can certainly be lost during the walk from the dressing room to the ring. Against Anthony Joshua, Dubois actually walked to the ring first, despite holding the title at the time, and he did so with the same notable confidence he continues to display.
“Honestly, I find it hard to describe,” he reflected. “I was just completely locked in from the moment we departed for the arena. We had a small group of people gathered there, and that was it – everything felt right. There was positive energy, good vibes. And we simply carried that feeling into the ring, executed our plan, and left. Simple as that.”
“Simple as that,” he repeated. And on that night, his performance certainly made it appear straightforward.
The chance to interview the champion so close to his fight arose partly from his new partnership with Brooks Running, which involved equipping his team, and particularly his brother, with new trainers to look the part. This made it relevant to explore the specific training that goes into preparing a heavyweight athlete.
“As a fighter, you absolutely cannot neglect your road work,” the IBF champion emphasized. “All the legendary fighters do it. We`ve all seen films like Rocky – they consistently do their running. So, it`s critically important. You must do your road work at least three times a week.”
This definite statement was followed by a slightly ambiguous “they say,” which hinted that Daniel himself might not always adhere strictly to this rule. However, he quickly insisted that if his opponent were within earshot, he`d claim to be hitting the roads twice a day, five days a week.
A recurring theme emerged throughout my discussion with the 27-year-old: “my dad.” Whether the topic was self-belief, future opportunities, expectations, or inspiration, all paths seemed to lead back in some way to the strong father figure who coached Daniel and his equally successful siblings – WBC champion Caroline, Prince, and Solomon.
“My dad – he started us training even before I truly learned the technical skills of boxing,” Dubois explained. “He was always at the gym, so I was there with him, and he had me working on a lot of the fundamental conditioning. It was honestly a truly special period for me. It`s a family endeavor through and through. Everything originated from my dad and his vision, and we`ve continued it. He gave us the foundation, and we`ve been able to carry it forward. For his sake, I want to go perform strongly on the 19th and walk away with all the championship belts.”
