Usyk Dominates Dubois, Crowned Undisputed Heavyweight Champion in Fifth-Round Thriller

2025-07-19
Usyk Dominates Dubois, Crowned Undisputed Heavyweight Champion in Fifth-Round Thriller
Evening Standard

Oleksandr Usyk has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time, delivering a stunning fifth-round knockout of Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium. The Ukrainian southpaw, already a former undisputed cruiserweight champion, added the WBC, WBA (Super), IBF, and WBO heavyweight titles to his collection, leaving Dubois and his supporters reeling from a second career defeat.

The atmosphere inside Wembley was electric, with a roaring home crowd backing Dubois, the younger and physically imposing challenger. Dubois started aggressively, attempting to utilise his reach and power to unsettle Usyk. Early on, the fight was punctuated by a controversial moment in the second round. Dubois landed a right hand that appeared to buckle Usyk’s legs, prompting a brief pause and a frantic appeal from Dubois’ corner for a knockdown. However, the referee ruled it a flash knockdown, allowing the fight to continue.

Usyk, displaying his trademark composure and ring intelligence, weathered the early storm. He began to systematically dismantle Dubois' game plan, utilising his superior footwork, angles, and counter-punching ability. The Ukrainian’s jab proved particularly effective, disrupting Dubois' rhythm and limiting his opportunities to land his power shots. As the rounds progressed, Dubois’ energy visibly drained, while Usyk’s control of the fight tightened.

The decisive moment arrived in the fifth round. Usyk, sensing Dubois’ fatigue, unleashed a blistering combination, culminating in a perfectly timed left hook that sent the British fighter crashing to the canvas. Dubois bravely attempted to rise, but the referee, after a brief count, correctly deemed him unable to continue. The crowd erupted as Usyk’s hand was raised in victory.

“It was a tough fight,” Usyk stated after the bout. “Daniel is a strong, young man. He has a great future. I want to thank everyone who came to support me tonight. This victory is for my country, for Ukraine.”

Dubois, despite the defeat, showed immense courage and resilience. He acknowledged Usyk’s skill and vowed to return stronger. “I take my hat off to Usyk. He’s a great champion. I’ll be back, and I’ll be better,” he declared.

The victory marks another significant achievement in Usyk’s remarkable career, solidifying his place among the all-time greats. It also raises intriguing questions about potential future matchups, with Tyson Fury consistently mentioned as the next possible opponent. The boxing world eagerly awaits to see what Usyk will do next as he continues his reign as the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.

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