Dubois Makes Shocking Statement: ‘Usyk Underestimates Parker Because He Knows He Can’t Compare to Me, He Just Wants Revenge Instead of Facing a Real Challenge

In a surprising turn of events, British heavyweight contender Daniel Dubois has made a bold claim, accusing Oleksandr Usyk of underestimating Joseph Parker and choosing him as an opponent out of revenge rather than for a legitimate challenge. Dubois, who has been seeking a rematch with Usyk after their controversial first fight, insists that the Ukrainian champion is avoiding him because he knows he poses a greater threat than Parker. As the boxing world reacts to these statements, the question arises: Is Usyk dodging Dubois, or is he simply making a strategic career move?

The Controversial First Fight: Dubois vs. Usyk

Dubois’ frustration stems from his first encounter with Usyk in August 2023, a bout that ended in a ninth-round stoppage victory for the Ukrainian. However, the fight was overshadowed by controversy, particularly a pivotal moment in the fifth round when Dubois landed a powerful body shot that floored Usyk. Referee Luis Pabon ruled the shot a low blow, allowing Usyk nearly four minutes to recover. The decision was hotly debated, with Dubois and his camp arguing that the punch was legal and could have resulted in a knockout victory for him.

Following the fight, Dubois expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, “I didn’t think that was a low blow. I thought that landed, and I’ve been cheated out of victory tonight.” His promoter, Frank Warren, even pushed for a review of the decision, but ultimately, Usyk retained his titles, and Dubois was left without the rematch he sought.

Dubois’ Accusations: Is Usyk Avoiding a Rematch?

Now, with Usyk opting to fight Joseph Parker instead of giving Dubois a second shot, the British boxer has doubled down on his claims that the Ukrainian is deliberately avoiding him. Dubois’ latest statement is particularly scathing:

“Usyk underestimates Parker because he knows he can’t compare to me. He just wants revenge instead of facing a real challenge.”

Dubois is implying that Usyk is choosing Parker because he sees him as an easier opponent, rather than accepting a riskier rematch that could settle the controversy of their first bout. But is there any merit to Dubois’ claims?

Why Usyk Chose Parker Over Dubois

While Dubois believes Usyk is avoiding him, the Ukrainian champion’s decision to face Parker could be motivated by several factors:

1. Fresh Challenge & Legacy Building – Usyk has built a career on fighting the best, from dominating the cruiserweight division to defeating Anthony Joshua twice. Parker, a former WBO heavyweight champion, represents a new challenge, allowing Usyk to add another high-profile name to his record.

2. Dubois’ Losses & Questionable Credentials – Although Dubois remains a top-tier fighter, his loss to Usyk and a previous defeat to Joe Joyce may have diminished his appeal as a legitimate title challenger in Usyk’s eyes. If Usyk’s goal is to strengthen his legacy, facing Parker—who has been in the ring with top fighters like Joshua, Dillian Whyte, and Deontay Wilder—might be a more attractive option.

3. Avoiding Controversy & Legal Disputes – The controversy surrounding the Dubois fight could have influenced Usyk’s decision. A rematch would inevitably be clouded by debates over the low-blow incident. By choosing Parker, Usyk sidesteps any further scrutiny regarding their first encounter.

4. Negotiation & Marketability – Parker’s recent resurgence and impressive performances have made him a more marketable fight. The New Zealander is coming off a dominant win over Deontay Wilder, making him a more relevant name in the heavyweight division at the moment.

How Joseph Parker Fits Into the Picture

While Dubois believes Parker is being underestimated, the New Zealander is anything but an easy opponent. A former WBO champion, Parker has shared the ring with some of the division’s best and has built a reputation as a durable, skilled fighter with an impressive chin.

Parker’s recent victory over Deontay Wilder was a statement win, showcasing his ability to handle power punchers and outbox dangerous opponents. If Usyk thinks he’s getting an easier challenge with Parker, he might be in for a surprise.

The Boxing World Reacts: Fans & Experts Weigh In

Dubois’ claims have sparked a heated debate in the boxing community. Fans and analysts are divided on whether Usyk is truly dodging Dubois or if Dubois is simply bitter over missing out on a rematch.

Some argue in favor of Dubois’ statement:

• “Dubois deserves a rematch. That body shot was clean, and Usyk knows it. He’s ducking Dubois because he got lucky the first time.”

• “Parker is a great fighter, but come on, Usyk should run it back with Dubois to clear the air.”

Others defend Usyk’s decision:

• “Usyk has never ducked a challenge. Parker just beat Wilder, which is a way bigger statement than anything Dubois has done.”

• “Dubois needs to move on. He lost fair and square, and Usyk has every right to fight whoever he wants.”

What’s Next for Dubois?

While Dubois continues to call for a rematch, he may need to shift his focus to other opportunities in the heavyweight division. Potential future opponents include:

• A fight against Deontay Wilder – Both fighters have something to prove, and a Dubois vs. Wilder showdown could be an explosive encounter.

• A rematch with Joe Joyce – If Dubois wants to reclaim his status, avenging his previous loss to Joyce could be a logical step.

• A bout with Anthony Joshua or Filip Hrgović – Both fighters are currently seeking competitive matchups, and Dubois could push himself back into title contention with a big win.

Conclusion: Is Dubois Right or Just Frustrated?

At the heart of this controversy is a simple question: Is Usyk avoiding Dubois because he sees him as a bigger threat than Parker, or is Dubois merely trying to stir the pot after losing their first fight?

While Dubois has every right to feel that he deserves a rematch, Usyk’s decision to fight Parker is not necessarily an act of avoidance. Parker is a legitimate, world-class opponent who has earned his shot at the title. Usyk, as a strategic and disciplined champion, is making a calculated move to further solidify his legacy.

However, Dubois’ statement has certainly added more drama to the heavyweight division, and if he continues to win and stay relevant, Usyk may eventually have no choice but to face him again. Until then, the boxing world will watch closely as Usyk and Parker prepare to settle their own battle in the ring.