In a shocking revelation, Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning heavyweight champion, has expressed his preference for facing an opponent at the level of Daniel Dubois rather than engaging in another battle with Anthony Joshua. This unexpected stance has left boxing fans and analysts puzzled, considering that Usyk has already defeated Joshua twice in dominant fashion.

Usyk’s decision seems to go beyond the typical pursuit of championship glory or financial incentives. His reasoning touches upon deeper aspects of the sporting world, including personal values, friendship, and strategic career moves. Could this be an indication that Usyk sees Joshua as a friend rather than a rival? Or does he believe that his battles with Joshua have already settled the debate about their standing in the heavyweight division?

This article delves into Usyk’s statement, examining the history of his fights with Joshua, his possible motivations, and how this decision could shape the future of the heavyweight boxing scene.

Usyk’s History with Anthony Joshua

A Historic First Clash: The 2021 Upset

When Oleksandr Usyk moved up from cruiserweight to challenge Anthony Joshua in 2021, many experts believed that he would be at a size and power disadvantage. Joshua, the reigning champion, was known for his knockout power, disciplined technique, and athleticism.

However, Usyk defied all expectations by putting on a masterclass performance. His superior footwork, speed, and ring intelligence completely neutralized Joshua’s strength and size advantage. Over 12 rounds, Usyk outboxed the British superstar, claiming a unanimous decision victory and securing the WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles.

The 2022 Rematch: Joshua’s Adjustments Were Not Enough

A year later, the two fighters met again in a high-stakes rematch. Joshua made tactical adjustments, focusing on body shots and a more aggressive approach. However, Usyk’s ability to adapt and counter once again proved too much for Joshua. Despite some closely contested rounds, Usyk emerged victorious, securing another decision win and further solidifying his status as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.

With two decisive victories over Joshua, many fans wondered if a third fight would ever happen. However, Usyk’s latest comments suggest that he has no interest in repeating history.

Why Usyk Prefers a Dubois-Level Opponent

1. Loyalty and Personal Ethics: ‘Bestie is No Fight Together’

One of the most intriguing reasons behind Usyk’s decision is his sense of honor and sportsmanship. In his statement, he hinted that Joshua is now a respected figure in his eyes, perhaps even a friend or “bestie” in boxing.

Unlike the bitter rivalries that often fuel trilogy fights (such as Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier or Tyson Fury vs. Deontay Wilder), Usyk’s relationship with Joshua appears to be one of mutual respect. He may see no value in continuing to fight someone he respects, as it contradicts his personal principles of sportsmanship.

In contrast, an opponent like Daniel Dubois—or any other rising heavyweight—offers a new, fresh challenge without the burden of personal bonds or history.

2. Different Fighting Styles: A Tactical Preference

Usyk has already proven his dominance over Joshua twice. Fighting him again would likely be a similar technical challenge, one that Usyk has already mastered.

However, a fighter like Daniel Dubois represents a different kind of test. Dubois, though less experienced than Joshua, is known for his explosive knockout power and aggressive fighting style.

• Joshua is a calculated boxer, using size, strength, and patience to control fights.
• Dubois is a raw power puncher, relying on brute force and relentless aggression.

Usyk, ever the tactical genius, may see a fight against Dubois as a chance to prove his ability to handle younger, more aggressive punchers. It could be a showcase fight, demonstrating his versatility against all styles of heavyweights.

3. The Business and Financial Aspect

Boxing is not just about legacy—it’s also a business. Promoters, networks, and sponsors always look for fights that generate maximum revenue.

A third fight with Joshua could be lucrative, but it might not capture the same excitement as before. The public has already seen Usyk beat Joshua twice, so a trilogy fight would have less unpredictability.

On the other hand, a fresh opponent like Dubois—or another rising heavyweight—would bring a new narrative and excitement to the division. This could lead to higher PPV sales and ticket revenue.

Usyk’s Path to Heavyweight Greatness

1. Becoming the Undisputed Champion

Usyk’s immediate focus is on Tyson Fury, the WBC heavyweight champion. Their highly anticipated showdown will determine the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999.

If Usyk wins, he will cement his place in history as the ultimate heavyweight king. At that point, fighting Joshua again would seem even more unnecessary, as Usyk’s legacy would already be secured.

2. Defending Against New Contenders

Once Usyk achieves undisputed status, his next goal would be to defend the titles against hungry, younger challengers like:

• Daniel Dubois is a power puncher looking for redemption.
• Filip Hrgović is a highly skilled Croatian contender.
• Jared Anderson is an American rising star with knockout power.

By taking on fresh talent, Usyk ensures that his reign remains exciting and unpredictable.

Conclusion

Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to prioritize a fight with a Dubois-level opponent over another Anthony Joshua rematch is a statement of his values and strategic thinking.

• He respects Joshua too much to fight him again without a good reason.
• He wants a new challenge that will test different aspects of his boxing skills.
• He understands the business of boxing, knowing that fresh fights generate more excitement.

As he prepares for his historic clash with Tyson Fury, Usyk is making it clear that he controls his own destiny in the heavyweight division. Whether he fights Dubois, Hrgović, or another rising contender, Usyk’s legacy as one of the most intelligent and disciplined boxers of this era is already being written.

The boxing world now waits to see if Usyk’s vision will play out as planned—or if the unpredictable nature of the sport will change everything once again.