The potential rematch between IBF world heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois and former two-time champion Anthony Joshua is gaining momentum, with tentative plans for February 2024. This development comes from Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, during a press conference following the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol fight. Alalshikh detailed that a significant fight card is being assembled to showcase a competitive match-up between rival promoters Queensberry and Matchroom. His announcement signifies not just the anticipated clash between Dubois and Joshua but also hints at the broader inclusion of high-profile boxers like Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, marking a pivotal time in heavyweight boxing.
The backdrop of this rematch is Joshua’s stunning defeat at the hands of Dubois last month, where he was dropped multiple times at Wembley Stadium in front of a massive audience. Dubois delivered a decisive blow in Round 5, knocking Joshua down and leading to his fourth career loss. This unexpected outcome raised numerous questions regarding Joshua’s future and his status in the heavyweight division, igniting discussions among fans and analysts alike about the implications of this upset on his career trajectory and potential comeback. Despite the defeat, Joshua remains determined to continue boxing, with promotions confirming that the rematch will take place in Saudi Arabia during the Riyadh Season, which encompasses a variety of entertainment and sporting events from October to March.
Promoters from both sides have shared their insights on the previous bout and the forthcoming rematch. Frank Warren, representing Dubois, emphasized the importance of fighting styles in boxing, particularly highlighting that Joshua’s vulnerability appears when he is pressured and forced to engage. Warren believed that Dubois’ early strategies set the tone for their first fight, illustrating how Joshua struggled to regain control once Dubois imposed his own style. He noted that Joshua’s tendencies to trade punches play into Dubois’s strengths, as he can exploit counter-attacks when Joshua becomes aggressive.
Eddie Hearn, who champions Joshua, has also expressed confidence regarding the rematch. While previously addressing its timing and setting, Hearn confirmed that should the fight materialize, it would naturally fit within the Riyadh Season framework. Both promoters are invested in ensuring that the rematch not only serves as a sporting event but also as part of a broader spectacle that encapsulates entertainment and excitement for boxing fans. This strategic planning points to the rising significance of Middle Eastern venues in the world of boxing, further underlining the growing influence of the region in hosting high-stakes boxing matches.
Looking ahead, boxing enthusiasts are eager to witness the adjustments both fighters make leading into the rematch, especially considering the dramatic turn of events in their last encounter. Analysts and fans are anticipating how Joshua will leverage his experience to reclaim his position and what new strategies he may deploy against Dubois. The looming heavyweight clash will not only determine the immediate careers of both fighters but will also have a lasting impact on the heavyweight scene, as it serves as a curtain raiser for other potential matchups in the division.
As the boxing community awaits further announcements, the prospect of Joshua and Dubois stepping back into the ring captivates supporters and experts alike. The increasing anticipation builds around the fight being staged in a lavish setting like Riyadh, which has quickly become a hotspot for major boxing events. With further developments expected soon, including possible surprises in the fight card, the momentum surrounding this rematch reflects the evolving landscape of heavyweight boxing and the enduring appeal of boxing as a mainstream spectacle. This rematch is poised to become a significant chapter in the careers of both boxers as they vie for supremacy and relevance in a highly competitive universe.
