Oleksandr Usyk reaffirmed his place among boxing’s elite with a clinical fifth-round knockout of Daniel Dubois on Saturday night, delivering a performance that underlined his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
Returning to the ring for their highly anticipated rematch, Usyk left no room for controversy this time.
The 38-year-old Ukrainian, sharp as ever, dictated the pace from the outset, using his superior footwork, timing, and ring IQ to nullify Dubois at every turn.
By the fourth round, Usyk began applying real pressure, backing Dubois up with sharp combinations and cutting angles that left the younger Brit swinging at shadows. The breakthrough came in the fifth.
A punishing left to the chin sent Dubois crashing to the canvas for the first time. Moments later, another clean shot put him down again, forcing the referee to wave it off.
“I want to rest now,” Usyk said post-fight. “I want to be with my family. Just a rest, maybe two or three months.”
Usyk, now 24-0, becomes the first man in boxing history to be crowned undisputed champion three times across cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.
His legacy continues to grow with landmark victories over Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and now Dubois, all defeated twice.
Saturday’s fight offered Dubois, 25, a chance at redemption following last year’s controversial stoppage loss due to a disputed low blow.
But this time, the Londoner had no answers. His record falls to 22-3, though he showed heart in defeat.
“I gave everything I had,” Dubois said. “There were some things I could’ve sharpened up on, but I’ll be back.”
Usyk’s perfect 8-0 record against British opposition speaks volumes, and while rumours swirl around a potential trilogy bout with Tyson Fury, the champion made it clear he’s in no rush.
“Maybe it’s Tyson Fury. Maybe Joshua. Maybe Parker. I cannot say now. I just want to go back home.”
