Updated 27 Aug 2023 12:41 am:
On Saturday night, at the Tarczynski Arena in Wroclaw, Poland, Oleksandr Usyk emerged victorious against Daniel Dubois, securing a knockout triumph in the ninth round. In this intense battle, Usyk successfully defended his unified WBO, IBF, and WBA heavyweight titles, titles that he had initially claimed from Anthony Joshua and subsequently safeguarded against him.
However, Usyk’s path to victory was far from smooth, requiring him to withstand immense pressure and even recover from a knockdown caused by what the referee deemed a low blow. Initially, Usyk dominated the early rounds, skillfully employing his dynamic southpaw jabs to catch Dubois off guard and secure the initial lead.
The confrontation escalated dramatically in the fifth round when Dubois delivered a powerful blow to Usyk’s midsection, resulting in a knockdown that the referee deemed an unintentional low blow. Although given a full five minutes to recover, Usyk appeared visibly uncomfortable.
Despite this setback, Dubois unleashed a relentless barrage on Usyk’s body upon resumption, testing the Ukrainian champion’s resilience. Dubois continued to exhibit aggressive tactics, launching potent attacks on Usyk.
Facing adversity, Usyk managed to regain his footing and retaliated by connecting with a sweeping left hook, momentarily stunning Dubois. Rapid and precise punches followed, targeting Dubois’ head and culminating in a knockdown at the close of the eighth round.
In the ninth round, Usyk capitalized on his advantage, landing a decisive lead right over the top that sent Dubois to a knee, ultimately prompting the referee to count him out.
While Dubois suffered defeat, his reputation notably soared. Initially entering the contest as the mandatory challenger for the WBA title, Dubois had yet to triumph against an elite-level opponent, having previously been stopped by Joe Joyce in 2020.
In stark contrast, Usyk stands as a prominent figure in the boxing world, demonstrating prowess across weight classes. He achieved the status of undisputed champion at cruiserweight by securing victory in the World Boxing Super Series, conquering opponents such as Mairis Briedis and Murat Gassiev.
Transitioning to the heavyweight division, Usyk retained his unbeaten record, dethroning Anthony Joshua and soundly outpointing him in their rematch in Saudi Arabia.
Usyk’s dedication to representing his homeland, Ukraine, further solidifies his legacy. His commitment was evident when he postponed his rematch with Joshua to return to Ukraine in response to the Russian invasion.
Despite the challenges posed by Dubois, Usyk remained steadfast. Reflecting on his triumph, he expressed gratitude for his team, family, and country. He acknowledged the tough nature of boxing, emphasizing its distinction from ballet and labelling it a “king’s sport.”
A point of contention emerged regarding a blow delivered by Dubois that was deemed a low blow. Dubois and his team vehemently asserted that the blow was legitimate, potentially warranting a knockdown or even a knockout.
However, Usyk, along with his promoter Frank Warren and trainer Don Charles, disagreed with this assessment. Usyk’s team plans to contest the outcome, while Usyk himself looks ahead.
With three out of the four major heavyweight titles in his possession, Usyk’s aspirations turn toward a potential matchup with Tyson Fury, the holder of the WBC belt. Expressing readiness for this encounter, Usyk looks forward to reuniting with his family after an extended training period.
Writer Info:
