There are two heavyweight world title fights coming up this year – Anthony Joshua versus Daniel Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk‘s rematch with Tyson Fury.
First up on September 21, newly elevated IBF Champion Dubois, thanks to Usyk vacating the belt, faces Joshua at Wembley Stadium. It’s ‘AJ’s chance to become a three-time titlist in the division against the younger man who looks to force a changing of the heavyweight guard on British shores.
Usyk has beaten both men – Joshua to win the unified titles and Dubois to defend them – and has picked a clear winner in Joshua. Speaking to Mail Sport, he said the 34-year-old would come out on top and then they could discuss a trilogy bout.
“He has improved a lot psychologically … Of course [he beats Daniel Dubois] … It’s like Olympic Champion and UK Champion. Anthony is a different level.
“I don’t particularly want any rematches, but when we beat Tyson Fury for the second time and when Anthony Joshua beats Daniel Dubois, of course they will want to do a third fight.
From my point of view I have no right to deny Anthony a third fight because he gave me two incredible fights. Anthony helped me become even more famous in the world. Anthony did it. And if it happens with God’s help, then I am ready for a third fight with Anthony.”
Of course Tyson Fury will have other plans. Many want to see him win the rematch against the Ukrainian after coming up short via split decision in May purely to set up a long-awaited all-British affair with ‘AJ.’
‘The Gypsy King’ doesn’t see that happening though. Promoter Frank Warren, who also reps Dubois, shared Fury’s prediction via Sky Sports.
“I spoke with [Tyson] this morning … He said the same thing, he’s in the same frame of mind as I am about Daniel’s chances. He thinks Daniel’s gonna do the business, so that’ll be the unification next year.”
Fury and Usyk battle it out in December, their first instalment being a fight worthy of the undisputed status that Usyk ultimately achieved. Only the WBC, WBA and WBO belts will be on the line this time around.
