Several boxers have expressed support for Anthony Joshua to defeat Daniel Dubois in their upcoming IBF heavyweight title fight at Wembley Stadium on September 21.
Joshua, the former unified heavyweight champion, has been regaining his form after suffering consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk.
Since then, the British-Nigerian has bounced back with three straight knockout wins over Robert Helenius, Otto Wallin, and Francis Ngannou. The 33-year-old aims to continue his winning streak when he meets Dubois in a bout broadcast live on Sky Sports Box Office.
Many in the boxing world are confident Joshua will reclaim the title, including European champion Tyler Denny, who believes Joshua’s power will be the key to victory.
“If I had to pick, I’d pick Joshua. They’ve both got the destructive power to knock each other out, which is why it’s so fascinating. But I think AJ has the edge,” Denny said.
Former world champions Liam Smith and Josh Warrington shared similar views. Smith stated that Joshua’s fighting style is better suited for this matchup, while Warrington emphasized Joshua’s renewed confidence.
“Confidence-wise and results-wise, they are in great form. But I think it’s a style that’s probably suited for Joshua more than Dubois,” Smith said.
“Both are big punchers. I’m leaning towards AJ because he’s got that demon look in his eye again, and he’s been here before,” Warrington added.
Frazer Clarke believes that Daniel Dubois’ defeats to Joe Joyce and Oleksandr Usyk have helped him grow into a more mature and dangerous opponent for Anthony Joshua.
South African heavyweight Kevin Lerena, who fought Dubois in 2022, also feels that the 25-year-old will pose a serious challenge to Joshua.
“Dubois is on a high right now. He’s got tremendous power, and his confidence is soaring. But AJ is exceptional, which makes this a fantastic matchup,” said Lerena.
Lerena sees the fight as unpredictable, given that both fighters possess knockout power. “It’s a tough challenge for both men,” he added.
With both Joshua and Dubois eager for victory, their September 21 bout is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated heavyweight battles of the year.
