Heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk maintained his composure as Daniel Dubois and his team levelled persistent accusations regarding the controversial low blow incident from their initial encounter.
This tense media event served as the official launch for their highly anticipated rematch, scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium in London on July 19th.
Their first meeting in 2023 ended in the ninth round with Usyk securing a stoppage victory. However, the fight featured a critical moment in the fifth round when Dubois landed a body punch that was ruled a low blow by the referee, allowing Usyk recovery time.
`Dynamite` Dubois continues to stand by his claim that the disputed punch was legitimate and landed legally to Usyk`s body, not below the belt line.
Since that bout, Dubois has successfully rebuilt his momentum with impressive stoppage wins over Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic, significantly boosting his confidence going into the rematch.
Usyk, showcasing his vast experience and ring IQ, overcame the mid-fight controversy in their first contest before proceeding to face Tyson Fury twice.
His first battle with Fury saw Usyk become the undisputed heavyweight champion. Although he later vacated the IBF title – which is now held by Dubois – he once again defeated Fury in their subsequent rematch.
Now, the 37-year-old Ukrainian star has the opportunity to reclaim the IBF championship belt and, in doing so, regain his status as the undisputed king of the heavyweight division for a second time.
As expected, the low blow debate was a central theme at today`s press conference. Usyk`s team came prepared, presenting printed photographs from the first fight. They argued that these images demonstrated instances where multiple punches thrown by Dubois were indeed below the belt, even if the referee didn`t rule them as such.
Despite the accusations and presentation of photographic evidence, Dubois appeared unfazed and even signed the images when prompted by Usyk, with both fighters adding their autographs.
Frank Warren, head of Queensberry Promotions, added some promotional flair, stating: “Daniel at Wembley – he’s going to make your legs go all trembly.”
Dubois` head trainer, Don Charles, was more direct in his criticism, accusing Usyk: “You conned the referee, you conned the boxing world.”
Charles went as far as questioning Usyk`s religious beliefs in light of the perceived deception. Usyk responded calmly to the trainer`s query, simply confirming his faith in Jesus Christ.
