Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, has offered a compelling perspective on the relative merits of two prominent British heavyweights, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, both of whom he has vanquished in the ring. Despite Joshua’s recent knockout loss to Dubois, Usyk maintains that Joshua remains the superior boxer, citing his Olympic gold medal and two world championship reigns as evidence of his pedigree. This assessment, coming from a fighter who has shared the ring with both men, carries significant weight and provides valuable insight into the nuances of their respective boxing styles.
Usyk’s assertion stems from his belief that Joshua and Dubois, while both boxers, possess fundamentally different athletic profiles and fighting approaches. He emphasizes the distinct nature of their skills and attributes, suggesting that a direct comparison is not entirely appropriate. Joshua, with his amateur pedigree and experience at the highest levels of the sport, has developed a more refined and technical approach to boxing. Dubois, on the other hand, represents a younger, more raw talent, relying more on his power and physicality. This difference in style, according to Usyk, makes a simple comparison between the two fighters somewhat misleading.
Usyk’s perspective is informed by his firsthand experience against both men. He defeated Joshua in consecutive bouts in 2021 and 2022, showcasing his superior ring generalship and tactical acumen. Against Dubois in 2023, Usyk endured a controversial low blow that sent him to the canvas, but ultimately recovered to secure a knockout victory. This diverse range of experiences against both fighters allows Usyk a unique vantage point from which to assess their strengths and weaknesses. His assessment underscores the importance of considering factors beyond simply wins and losses when evaluating a fighter’s overall abilities.
The boxing landscape continues to evolve, with both Joshua and Dubois navigating their respective paths back to title contention. Joshua, reeling from his loss to Dubois, is reportedly focusing his efforts on securing a bout with either Tyson Fury, the WBC heavyweight champion, or a rematch with Dubois. A fight against Fury would represent the biggest possible fight in the division, pitting two British heavyweights against each other in a clash for global supremacy. A rematch with Dubois, while less prestigious, offers Joshua the opportunity to avenge his recent defeat and regain some momentum.
Dubois, meanwhile, has been vocal about his desire for a rematch with Usyk, aiming to avenge his loss and claim the undisputed heavyweight championship. However, Usyk is currently mandated to defend his titles against Joseph Parker, the WBO mandatory challenger. This mandatory obligation complicates the immediate prospects of a Dubois rematch, forcing him to potentially explore other avenues for his next fight.
Despite Usyk’s assessment of Joshua as the better boxer, the recent knockout loss to Dubois raises questions about Joshua’s current form and future prospects. The shocking nature of the defeat suggests a potential decline in his abilities, raising concerns about his ability to compete at the highest level against elite competition. However, the possibility of a fight against Fury remains a tantalizing prospect, offering Joshua a chance to reclaim his position at the pinnacle of the heavyweight division. The unfolding narrative of these heavyweight contenders promises to be a compelling storyline in the coming months, as they navigate the complex landscape of boxing politics and pursue their respective championship aspirations.
