As anticipation builds for one of the most highly awaited heavyweight clashes of the year, British powerhouse Daniel Dubois has sent a chilling warning to reigning unified champion Oleksandr Usyk: “I’m coming for war. Expect brutality.”

With the fight set to take place in front of a global audience, Dubois is not holding back. The 26-year-old, known for his thunderous knockout power and aggressive style, is preparing for the biggest challenge of his career. Standing across from him will be Oleksandr Usyk — the undefeated, slick Ukrainian southpaw who holds the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles.
No Respect, Just Business
Dubois has made it clear in recent interviews that he is not starstruck by Usyk’s reputation.
“I respect what Usyk has done, but respect doesn’t win fights,” Dubois said. “This is heavyweight boxing. One punch changes everything. I’ve got the power, the hunger, and now, the experience.”
While Usyk is celebrated for his boxing IQ, elite footwork, and ability to dismantle larger opponents — as he did against Anthony Joshua twice — Dubois insists that this time, Usyk will face something different: raw, unforgiving aggression.
“He’s never been in with someone like me. I’m not going to dance around. I’m going to take the fight to him and break him down. He’s a great technician, but I’m here to bring pain.”
A Clash of Styles
The bout will be a classic case of brains versus brawn, finesse versus force. Usyk, a former undisputed cruiserweight champion, has been nearly flawless since moving up to heavyweight. His movement, stamina, and tactical sharpness have made him a nightmare for slower, more predictable fighters.
But Dubois, with 19 knockouts in 20 wins, believes Usyk has not yet tasted the full fury of a natural heavyweight with bad intentions.
Trainer Don Charles, who has been working closely with Dubois in camp, believes his fighter is in the best shape of his life — physically and mentally.
“We’re not going to outbox Usyk — let’s be honest. But we don’t have to. We’ve got the blueprint: pressure, pace, and punishment. We’re going to test that chin.”
Redemption and Opportunity
For Dubois, this isn’t just another fight. It’s redemption. After suffering a setback in 2020 against Joe Joyce, where he was stopped due to a severe eye injury, many questioned his toughness and future in the sport. But Dubois has rebuilt himself, climbed the rankings, and now finds himself on the cusp of heavyweight glory.
“People doubted me after the Joyce fight. Said I didn’t have heart. I’ve carried that with me every day. This is my chance to shut everyone up and become world champion. I’m not letting it slip.”
Usyk Remains Calm
Meanwhile, Oleksandr Usyk has remained typically calm and focused in the lead-up to the fight. Never one to engage in trash talk, the Ukrainian has said little but made it clear through his camp that he is preparing for “a dangerous, young lion” — but one he plans to tame.
Usyk’s team has also expressed confidence in their game plan, which will likely revolve around movement, angles, and frustrating Dubois with speed and accuracy.
The Heavyweight Division Awaits
With the shadow of Tyson Fury looming and talk of a future undisputed bout, both men know what’s at stake. For Dubois, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime to dethrone one of the most technical champions in modern boxing. For Usyk, it’s another step toward cementing his legacy as an all-time great.
One thing is certain: come fight night, Daniel Dubois isn’t promising strategy — he’s promising violence.
“I’m not coming to survive,” he said with fire in his eyes. “I’m coming to destroy.”