Oleksandr Usyk is set to rematch Daniel Dubois for the undisputed world heavyweight championship on Saturday, July 19, at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London.
This highly anticipated bout marks a critical chapter in both fighters’ careers, with Usyk aiming to solidify his legacy and Dubois seeking to overturn a previous defeat and claim boxing’s ultimate prize.
The two first clashed in 2023 in Poland, where Usyk dominated en route to a ninth-round knockout victory. However, the fight was not without controversy.
During the fifth round, Dubois landed a heavy body shot that sent Usyk to the canvas, gasping for air. The referee ruled it a low blow, granting Usyk recovery time, a decision that sparked heated debate among fans and analysts.
Many in Dubois’ camp argued the punch was legal and could have shifted the fight’s outcome. Now, with the undisputed title on the line, Dubois has a golden opportunity to prove himself and exact revenge.
Usyk’s journey to this rematch has been historic. In May 2024, he defeated Tyson Fury in a masterful performance to become the first undisputed heavyweight world champion in 25 years, unifying the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF titles. The victory cemented Usyk as one of boxing’s all-time greats, showcasing his technical brilliance and resilience against a much larger opponent.
However, his obligation to honor a rematch clause with Fury prevented him from making a mandatory defense of the IBF belt against Dubois, the interim champion at the time. As a result, Usyk vacated the IBF title, and Dubois was elevated to full world champion status.
Since their first encounter, Dubois has shown significant growth. The 27-year-old British fighter, known for his devastating punching power, rebounded from setbacks to establish himself as a formidable force in the heavyweight division.
In September 2024, he delivered a stunning fifth-round knockout of former champion Anthony Joshua, defending his newly acquired IBF title and signaling his readiness for elite competition.
Originally scheduled to defend his belt against Joseph Parker in February 2025, Dubois was forced to withdraw due to illness, paving the way for this blockbuster rematch with Usyk.
Usyk, 38, remains a formidable champion despite the physical demands of his career. His unparalleled ring IQ, footwork, and endurance have carried him through battles against larger heavyweights, including Anthony Joshua, Derek Chisora, and Fury.
The Ukrainian, a former undisputed cruiserweight champion, has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to once again compete for the undisputed heavyweight crown. “I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to once again fight for the undisputed championship,” Usyk.
The stakes could not be higher for both fighters. For Usyk, a victory would further cement his place in boxing history, potentially setting the stage for another mega-fight, possibly a trilogy with Fury or a clash with another top contender.
For Dubois, defeating Usyk would not only avenge his 2023 loss but also establish him as the new face of the heavyweight division, fulfilling the promise he showed early in his career.
Wembley Stadium, with its capacity for over 90,000 fans, is expected to be electric as British fans rally behind Dubois, while Usyk’s global following adds to the international intrigue.
The rematch promises to be a tactical and emotional battle, with Usyk’s technical mastery pitted against Dubois’ raw power and determination to rewrite his story.
