Daniel Dubois asserts that having the home advantage against the formidable heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk will be a deciding factor, not only in the boxing ring but also regarding medical support.
The fighters previously clashed in 2023 in a bout largely controlled by Usyk, who brought his considerable experience (holding a record of 23-0 with 14 knockouts) and refined technique to secure a victory via ninth-round stoppage.
Since their initial meeting, Dubois, whose record stands at 22-2 with 21 knockouts, has maintained that the blow to the body in the fifth round, which was controversially ruled as low, was actually a legitimate shot.
Putting aside the dispute over the previous fight, the 27-year-old will have his opportunity to gain retribution when he faces Usyk again at Wembley Stadium in London on July 19th.
Following his second professional defeat, Dubois has enjoyed a strong return to form, securing impressive stoppage wins against Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and Anthony Joshua, which have significantly boosted his confidence.
Known as ‘Dynamite’, Dubois had intended to continue his powerful run in a highly anticipated contest against top heavyweight contender Joseph Parker last February.
However, an illness contracted during fight week forced him to withdraw from the scheduled bout, leading to Parker facing and defeating Martin Bakole instead.
Subsequently, Dubois’ head coach, Don Charles, revealed that his fighter had also experienced issues with swollen glands before his previous encounters with Usyk and Hrgovic.
Despite having undergone a tonsillectomy a year ago, the problem of a dry or irritated throat seems to be a recurring issue for the London-based heavyweight.
Nonetheless, looking forward to the rematch with Usyk, Dubois expressed confidence that any health concerns, should they arise, would be promptly and effectively managed, attributing this to the fight being on home territory.
He commented:
“It’s going to be on home turf now, so we’re going to have all the right medical people around us. This suits us better, and it won’t be a problem at all for this fight. It’s been a problem for me, but I think I’m getting on top of it.”
