In a shocking turn of events, Daniel Dubois delivered a decisive fifth-round knockout of former champion Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium on Saturday night, retaining his IBF heavyweight title and shaking up the heavyweight division.
Dubois (22-2, 21 KOs) dominated from the start, outpacing Joshua with a relentless display of power and precision. The 27-year-old London native controlled the early rounds, putting pressure on Joshua, who struggled to keep up with the younger, fresher fighter. Despite Joshua’s attempt to rally in the fifth round, Dubois landed a devastating right hand that ended the bout and sent Joshua to the canvas for the final time.
Dubois Dominates from the Start
From the first round, Dubois imposed his will, keeping Joshua on the defensive. By the fourth round, Joshua, a two-time former heavyweight champion, looked fatigued and unsteady on his feet. His efforts to regain control faltered, as Dubois consistently found openings for powerful combinations.
In the fifth round, Joshua briefly fought back, landing some big shots and backing Dubois into the corner. But Dubois seized the moment, delivering a thunderous right hand that connected with Joshua’s jaw, flooring the former champion and securing the knockout.
Joshua’s Future in Doubt
The loss puts Joshua’s future in the heavyweight division in question. Now with a record of 28-4 (25 KOs), Joshua was looking to recapture the IBF title for the third time, after holding it from 2016 to 2019. His attempt at redemption has now been derailed by Dubois’ knockout victory.
A rematch clause in the contract gives Joshua the option for an immediate second fight, but he may opt to take a different path as he reassesses his career trajectory.
Dubois’ Path to Glory
For Dubois, this win marks a major milestone in his career. Having been promoted to full IBF champion earlier this year after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the title, Dubois successfully defended his belt for the first time and has firmly established himself as a top contender in the heavyweight division.
Dubois could potentially face another leading IBF challenger, such as Joseph Parker, or set his sights on a blockbuster bout with the winner of the upcoming Usyk vs. Tyson Fury rematch.
Undercard: Buatsi Claims WBO Interim Title
Also on the night’s undercard, Joshua Buatsi edged out Willy Hutchinson via split decision to claim the WBO interim light heavyweight title. Buatsi, now 19-0, remains undefeated, while Hutchinson (18-2) saw his winning streak come to an end.
A Major Shift in the Heavyweight Division
Dubois’ victory has major implications for the future of the heavyweight division, shaking up the rankings and opening the door to new matchups. With his star on the rise, all eyes will be on Dubois as he continues his journey toward heavyweight supremacy. Whether Joshua seeks a rematch or explores other opportunities, the landscape has shifted—and Dubois is at the center of it all.
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