Usyk’s Undisputed Legacy Reaffirmed
Byline: IDNN Sports Desk
Oleksandr Usyk produced a devastating fifth-round knockout of Daniel Dubois to become a three-time undisputed heavyweight champion, lighting up Wembley Stadium in front of a crowd of 90,000 fans and delivering a masterclass that reaffirmed his legacy among boxing’s all-time greats.
The 38-year-old Ukrainian dismantled Dubois with precision and pace, flooring the Briton twice in the fifth round, the second time for good, as the referee counted him out and brought an explosive finish to their long-anticipated rematch.
“I’m sorry [Dubois], it’s sport. My people wanted this win. Now, I want rest. My family, my wife, my children—two or three months, I just want to rest,” Usyk told DAZN post-fight.
The victory sees Usyk reclaim the IBF title that was controversially stripped from him after his previous unification, adding it back to his collection of the WBA (Super), WBO, and WBC belts.
A Brutal Reminder of Greatness
From the first bell, Usyk showed no signs of decline. He slipped Dubois’ jabs, countered with accuracy, and frustrated his younger opponent with southpaw movement and ring IQ. Dubois, who had come into the fight as a former world champion and one of Britain’s top prospects, found himself unraveling round by round.
By Round 5, it was all over.
A right hook to the temple sent Dubois crashing down. He beat the count once, but a clean left hook seconds later sealed his fate.
The performance was eerily similar to their first fight in 2023, which Usyk also won inside the distance.
Dubois Left Reeling
It’s now three defeats in 25 contests for the 27-year-old Dubois—all inside the distance. While his performance against Anthony Joshua in 2024 earned him praise, this latest setback leaves his career trajectory uncertain.
“I gave everything I had. Take nothing away from that man. I’ll be back,” Dubois said.
What’s Next for Usyk?
The boxing world is already buzzing with calls for a trilogy bout with Tyson Fury, who posted a video congratulating both men but reminding fans:
“Usyk knows there’s only one man that can beat him. I’ve done it twice before. The world knows it. GK [Gypsy King] all day.”
Promoter Frank Warren confirmed that Joseph Parker is currently the WBO mandatory challenger, but didn’t rule out a blockbuster third fight between Fury and Usyk.
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