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Usyk Dominates Dubois: Unstoppable Champ Claims Third Undisputed Title

Published 3 weeks ago3 minute read
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Usyk Dominates Dubois: Unstoppable Champ Claims Third Undisputed Title

Oleksandr Usyk solidified his status as a three-time undisputed heavyweight boxing champion with a decisive knockout victory over Daniel Dubois in the fifth round at Wembley Stadium in London. This monumental win not only marked Usyk's second triumph over Dubois but also extended his pristine professional boxing record to an impressive 24-0. The Ukrainian's dominance against British fighters remains unbroken, with this being his eighth victory across five unique UK opponents.

Daniel Dubois had entered the highly anticipated unification bout as the IBF heavyweight champion, a title he secured by defeating Anthony Joshua in September following Usyk's decision to vacate the belt after his initial undisputed reign in 2023. Yet, it was the experienced Oleksandr Usyk, renowned for his unpredictable style and superior boxing prowess, who emerged victorious once more. He successfully reclaimed the IBF title, thus unifying the division by adding it to his existing WBA (Super), WBO, and WBC belts, becoming a two-time undisputed champion in the process.

Despite being dubbed a promising prospect in the heavyweight division, the younger Dubois faced a formidable challenge in the 38-year-old Usyk, a 2012 Olympic gold medalist. Usyk displayed his unmatched skills from the opening bell, matching Dubois's energy, landing precise jabs and a hook in the first round while fluidly dancing around to evade Dubois’s attacks. A well-timed counter hook in the second round briefly unsettled Dubois, who struggled to establish his jab. However, the 27-year-old Briton showed resilience, roaring back to match Usyk in the third and fourth rounds, earning considerable admiration from the captivated crowd.

The decisive moment arrived in the fifth round. Buoyed by his earlier success, Dubois pressed forward, seeking to land more shots. However, it was Usyk who delivered a powerful right hand over the top, sending Dubois to the canvas for the first knockdown. Though Dubois bravely beat the referee's count, Usyk wasted no time, following up with a signature left hook that sent Dubois sprawling onto his back for a second time. Recognizing the extent of the damage, the referee immediately stopped the fight, confirming Oleksandr Usyk as the winner by knockout.

Usyk's illustrious career now boasts significant victories over elite heavyweights, including Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and two wins against Daniel Dubois, all while contending for heavyweight titles. Post-fight, Dubois graciously acknowledged Usyk's superior performance, stating, "I have to commend him, I gave everything I had. There were some things I could have sharpened up on, but I will be back." This concession came despite Dubois's previous claims regarding a contested low blow in their 2023 encounter, underscoring Usyk's undeniable dominance in the rematch.

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