Anthony Joshua to Face Daniel Dubois for IBF Heavyweight Title at Wembley
Joshua and Dubois Set for All-British Showdown on 21 September
Anthony Joshua will take on fellow Briton Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title at Wembley Stadium on 21 September. This fight comes after undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt, leading to interim champion Dubois, 26, being elevated to champion status.
Background and Fighter Form
Joshua, a two-time world champion, is currently on a four-fight winning streak, with his last three victories coming by stoppage. The 34-year-old’s resurgence in form has rekindled excitement among fans. On the other hand, Dubois has secured impressive wins in his last two bouts, stopping Jarrell Miller in December and defeating Filip Hrgovic this month to claim the interim championship.
Usyk initially wanted to retain the IBF belt for his rematch with Britain’s Tyson Fury on 21 December but later decided to vacate it. In a video message on X, Usyk said, “Anthony and Daniel, I know the IBF title is important to you. It is my present to you on 21 September.”
Previous Encounters and Fight Record
Dubois’ previous attempt to win a world title ended in controversy against Usyk in August, where a contentious low blow call and a ninth-round stoppage marred the bout. Dubois has won 21 of his 23 fights, while Joshua boasts 28 victories and three losses, with the pair combining for 45 knockouts.
Venue and Significance
This fight will mark the return of high-profile boxing to Wembley Stadium, the first since Tyson Fury’s victory over Dillian Whyte in December 2022. Joshua will be making his fourth appearance at the venue, and third as a headliner, while Dubois will headline at a 60,000-plus venue for the first time.
Path to Future Fights
The winner of the Joshua-Dubois clash will be in a prime position to face the victor of the Usyk-Fury bout, making this match pivotal for both fighters’ careers.
Analysis: A Historic British Heavyweight Clash
BBC Sport journalist Kal Sajad notes the historical significance of all-British heavyweight battles, comparing this to classic matchups like Joe Bugner vs. Henry Cooper and Lennox Lewis vs. Frank Bruno.
Joshua returns to UK soil after fighting in Saudi Arabia, while Dubois, who has fought in Riyadh as well, aims to solidify his status as a world champion. Despite past setbacks, including a controversial loss to Joe Joyce in 2020, Dubois is rejuvenated and poised to challenge Joshua.
Joshua, the 2012 Olympic gold medalist, has silenced many critics with his recent performances, and a win over Dubois would further cement his legacy. Both fighters are eager to prove themselves, promising an electrifying encounter at Wembley.