Daniel Dubois successfully defended his IBF world heavyweight title with a stunning fifth-round knockout against Anthony Joshua in a high-octane fight at Wembley Stadium on Saturday night.
The bout, which drew a roaring crowd of 96,000 fans, saw Dubois deliver a career-defining performance against the former two-time heavyweight champion.
From the first bell, the 27-year-old Dubois dominated the fight, sending Joshua to the canvas multiple times. The win solidifies his position as a rising star in the heavyweight division, further legitimizing his reign as IBF champion after inheriting the title vacated by Oleksandr Usyk earlier in the year.
Dubois, who entered the contest as an underdog, wasted no time in asserting his control. His relentless pressure and powerful punches left the 2012 Olympic champion struggling to regain his footing. Despite some flashes of resilience from Joshua, Dubois’ heavy hands proved too much to handle.
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The pivotal moment came in the fifth round. After weathering a brief storm from Joshua, who had landed two significant right hands, Dubois responded with a barrage of punches that floored his opponent for the final time. Joshua, unable to beat the count, handed Dubois the biggest victory of his career.
Following the fight, Dubois expressed his gratitude and determination: “Are you not entertained?” he told DAZN. “It’s been a journey, and I’m grateful to be in this position. I’m a gladiator, a warrior to the bitter end. I want to reach the top of this sport and fulfil my potential.”
Joshua’s loss casts uncertainty over his boxing future, although his promoter, Eddie Hearn, hinted at the possibility of a rematch. Despite his defeat, Joshua’s moments of brilliance suggest he may not be finished just yet.
Both fighters had their eyes on a potential future bout against Tyson Fury or Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight crown. Usyk made history earlier this year by becoming the first boxer to hold all four major heavyweight titles – the IBF, WBO, WBC, and WBA – after defeating Fury. However, Usyk chose to vacate the IBF title in favor of a rematch with Fury, leaving Dubois to claim the vacant belt in June.
This win against Joshua cements Dubois’ status as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division, setting the stage for even bigger challenges ahead.
