Daniel Dubois successfully defended his IBF world heavyweight title with a stunning fifth-round knockout of Anthony Joshua in a thrilling all-British contest at Wembley on Saturday.
The 27-year-old took control from the start, sending the two-time former unified heavyweight champion to the canvas multiple times.
The dramatic turning point came in the fifth round when Dubois appeared momentarily shaken by two of Joshua’s right-hand strikes. Just as Joshua seemed ready to capitalise, Dubois countered with two powerful right hands of his own, knocking Joshua down once more. This time, the 34-year-old was unable to recover before the referee’s count.
“Are you not entertained?” Dubois shouted to the ecstatic crowd at Wembley. “I’m a gladiator. I’m a warrior to the bitter end. I want to get to the top of this sport and fulfil my potential.”
Earlier this year, Ukraine’s Oleksandr Usyk became the first undisputed heavyweight champion to hold all four major belts after defeating Tyson Fury, claiming the IBF, WBO, WBC, and WBA titles. However, instead of facing mandatory IBF challenger Dubois, Usyk agreed to a rematch with Fury.
Dubois, who secured the interim IBF title in June, was elevated to full world champion status when Usyk vacated the belt.
