Anthony Joshua may welcome young Daniel Dubois to Wembley Stadium this September in an all-British heavyweight banger.
The two-time world champion is looking for the best route to make that three, and Dubois, 26, is currently the IBF Interim titleholder. Should the full belt, currently held by Oleksandr Usyk, become vacant as many expect, this match-up could be fought for it.
Speaking to Box Nation, Lawrence Okolie – who recently picked up the WBC Bridgerweight World title by demolishing former champion Lukasz Rozanski – said it was a ‘winnable’ fight for underdog Dubois but a tall task.
“A great chance. He’s a big guy, a great puncher, good fundamentals and has someone like Don Charles in his corner that’s gonna push him. Obviously AJ has great experience, punch variety, speed and power. It’s a hard fight for Dan but a winnable fight both ways.”
Asked about the pair’s much-discussed sparring sessions back in the Team GB days, Okolie said he was in the room plenty and went on to praise Dubois’ punch power in particular, claiming only heavyweight prospect Moses Itauma can compete on that level.
“I’ve seen a lot of their spars. I think [Daniel] is probably one of the hardest punchers [in the division.] Him and Moses Itauma are the two hardest punchers I’ve ever been in the ring with, whether that’s sparring or fighting.”
Joshua will officially announce his next opponent at a press conference later this month. As far Okolie, he’s targetting a heavyweight move and wants former ‘AJ’ foe Joseph Parker.
