Daniel Dubois wants to conquer the heavyweight division. After his victory over Joshua, the IBF world champion is now challenging the best names in the division.
Daniel Dubois is well on his way to establishing himself as one of the most important figures in the heavyweight division. The 27-year-old Brit is currently IBF world champion and has just defended his title impressively. But the road to the really big fights has only just begun for the protégé of trainer Martin Bowers. This year, “DDD” wants even more.
The defending champion: Dubois defeats Joshua
In September 2024, Daniel Dubois defended his IBF title against two-time world champion Anthony Joshua in front of a record crowd at Wembley Stadium. Dubois showed his strength and sent Joshua to the floor in the fifth round after a hard right hand. The fight ended with a clear victory for Dubois, who knocked out the former champion.
After the victory, there were rumors about a possible rematch with Joshua, but the latter decided to recover from minor injuries first. Dubois now faces a second title defense against Joseph Parker, which will take place on February 22, 2024 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.
Dubois’ goal: to challenge the big names
Daniel Dubois recently clearly formulated his ambitions in an interview with Ade Oladipo on DAZN . His “hit list”: “Parker. Usyk. Bakole.” With a win against Joseph Parker, Dubois would take an important step towards a fight for the undisputed heavyweight crown.
Parker is an experienced fighter and a serious challenger. But Dubois is already thinking ahead: if he defeats Parker, a fight against three-time world champion Oleksandr Usyk could soon follow. Usyk currently holds the other three major heavyweight belts and is regarded as one of the best boxers of the moment. In any case, “DDD” still has a score to settle with the Ukrainian since he defeated him by knockout in Warsaw in August 2023. Another fight between the two world champions could redefine the balance of power in the heavyweight division.
The potential opponent: Martin Bakole
Another name on Dubois’ list is Martin Bakole. The Congolese will fight Efe Ajagba in May 2024 for the right to challenge Dubois. Bakole is regarded as one of the toughest and most dangerous heavyweight boxers. A potential fight against him would put Dubois to the test once again.
Dubois’ strength and ambition
Daniel Dubois is characterized by a remarkable combination of power, speed and ambition. “I have everything you need to stop Parker,” says Dubois himself. His experienced compatriot Derek Chisora is also convinced of Dubois’ qualities. “He’s strong and wants more than anyone else. Nobody can stop him,” says Chisora.
Opportunities and challenges for Daniel Dubois
With his impressive victories over Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic and Anthony Joshua, Dubois has attracted the attention of the boxing world. The young champion has not yet reached the point in his career where he can sit back and relax. Many challenges still await him. But numerous experts agree: Daniel Dubois has the potential to make a decisive impact on the heavyweight division in the coming years.
Text: Andreas Ohlberger
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