Oleksandr Usyk’s Bold Assessment: “I’m Sorry, But This Is the Truth”
Oleksandr Usyk, the Ukrainian boxing sensation, has recently made headlines with his blunt comparison between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois. Known for his formidable presence in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, Usyk’s insights are particularly significant given his extensive experience and recent achievements in the ring.
Born in Crimea, Ukraine, Usyk stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs 223 pounds. His impressive career includes holding multiple titles: WBA (Super), WBC, IBF, WBO, and The Ring cruiserweight and heavyweight belts. As a southpaw with a reach of 78 inches, Usyk has carved out a reputation as one of the sport’s elite fighters.
Over the past six years, Usyk has notably competed against British boxers, achieving victories over Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois. His career highlights include back-to-back wins over Joshua and a recent stoppage victory against Dubois. Usyk also captured the final heavyweight belt from Tyson Fury, becoming the division’s first undisputed champion in 25 years.
In a candid interview with Boxing News, Usyk discussed the differences between Joshua and Dubois. “I treat Daniel Dubois with respect. I wish him good luck, and let him become the champion someday if he trains well,” Usyk stated. “However, there is no way to compare Dubois and Joshua, as they are completely different fighters with different skills and styles. To be fair, I don’t think Dubois can reach Joshua’s level. I am sorry for saying this, but this is the truth and I’m telling it.”
Usyk’s comments come after his strategic decision to vacate the IBF heavyweight title, which elevated Dubois to full champion status. This move set up a high-stakes title fight between Dubois and Joshua, scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium in front of over 90,000 fans.
Usyk’s departure from the IBF title paved the way for the Dubois-Joshua clash, a significant event in the boxing calendar. Dubois is now tasked with defending his title against Joshua, who has been on a resurgence with notable wins over Otto Wallin and Francis Ngannou. A victory for Joshua would not only make him a three-time heavyweight champion but also set up a potential showdown with the winner of the upcoming Usyk-Fury rematch in Saudi Arabia later this year.
Usyk’s assessment of Dubois and Joshua highlights the complexities and competitive nature of heavyweight boxing. His candid remarks and strategic decisions reflect his deep understanding of the sport and his ongoing influence in shaping its landscape.
As the boxing world watches closely, Usyk’s role in the division remains pivotal. His insights into the fighters and his recent decisions continue to influence the dynamics of the heavyweight scene, keeping fans and analysts engaged in the evolving drama of the sport.
