The boxing world was rocked by a seismic announcement this morning, around 10:00 AM +07 on Monday, July 21, 2025, as the World Boxing Association (WBA) officially issued a ban on Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion. The decision stems from shocking evidence that has surfaced, alleging Usyk engaged in cheating and colluded with the referee to secure his victory over Daniel Dubois in their highly anticipated rematch on July 20, 2025, at Wembley Stadium. The Ukrainian fighter, celebrated for his masterful performance that night, now faces a detailed investigation, casting a dark cloud over his recent triumph and sparking intense debate across the sport. As Usyk has been summoned to address these grave accusations, the boxing community braces for what could be a defining moment in his illustrious career.
Usyk’s latest victory saw him knock out Dubois in the fifth round, reclaiming the undisputed heavyweight crown in front of 90,000 roaring fans. The fight, a rematch of their controversial 2023 encounter, showcased Usyk’s technical brilliance as he floored Dubois twice with precision strikes, prompting the referee to stop the bout. The Ukrainian’s record improved to 24-0, reinforcing his status as one of boxing’s all-time greats. However, the euphoria was short-lived as whispers of impropriety began to circulate, fueled by footage and testimonies that have now prompted the WBA to act. The allegations center on claims that Usyk manipulated the referee’s decisions, particularly during critical moments, to ensure the outcome favored him, a charge that has stunned fans and analysts alike.
The controversy echoes the lingering disputes from their first fight in August 2023, where Dubois landed a punch ruled a low blow, giving Usyk a lengthy recovery period before he stopped Dubois in the ninth round. Dubois’ team, including trainer Don Charles, had long insisted that shot was legitimate, accusing Usyk of exaggerating the impact to gain an unfair advantage. While the WBA upheld Usyk’s win at the time, finding no conclusive evidence of referee error, the latest claims suggest a pattern of behavior. New evidence, reportedly including video analysis and insider accounts, has led the WBA to reconsider, alleging that Usyk’s team influenced the officiating to secure another victory. This has prompted the association to impose an immediate ban pending a thorough probe.
The timing of the ban adds to the intrigue, coming less than 24 hours after Usyk’s knockout triumph. Dubois, who suffered his third career loss, had appeared resilient but outmatched, with Usyk’s strategic mastery proving decisive. Post-fight, Usyk spoke of rest and family, hinting at a possible retirement, while Dubois vowed to return stronger. Yet, the celebration turned sour as the WBA’s statement emerged, detailing the summons for Usyk to face the investigation. The process promises to be exhaustive, with the association vowing to examine every angle, from referee conduct to potential external pressures, raising questions about the integrity of the sport’s governing bodies.
Reactions have been swift and polarized. Usyk’s supporters argue the ban is premature, pointing to his consistent dominance and the lack of prior sanctions. They suggest the evidence might be fabricated or misinterpreted, possibly by rivals seeking to undermine his legacy. Conversely, Dubois’ camp has seized the moment, with Charles reiterating his belief that Usyk “conned the boxing world” not once but twice. Fans on social media are divided, with some demanding transparency and others decrying the allegations as a smear campaign against a war-torn hero who has fought for Ukraine’s spirit. The WBA’s credibility is also under scrutiny, with critics questioning why such evidence surfaced only now and whether political motives are at play.
The investigation’s outcome could reshape heavyweight boxing. If Usyk is cleared, his ban will lift, potentially leading to lucrative fights against names like Tyson Fury or Anthony Joshua. However, a guilty verdict could strip him of titles and trigger a rematch with Dubois, who might reclaim his IBF belt. The sport’s landscape hangs in the balance, with promoters and fighters awaiting the WBA’s final decision. Usyk, known for his resilience, faces his toughest challenge outside the ring, while Dubois’ team sees a chance to rewrite history. For now, the silence from Usyk’s camp adds to the mystery, leaving the boxing world to speculate on the truth behind the allegations and the future of a champion once thought untouchable.
