The tension between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois is reaching a boiling point ahead of their highly anticipated rematch. In a bold and unexpected move, Usyk’s team has reignited the controversy from their first fight by releasing a detailed compilation of more than 20 alleged low blows landed by Dubois — and they’re backing it up with photographic evidence signed by Usyk himself.

A Controversial Chapter Reopened

Their first bout ended in a victory for Usyk, but not without a storm of controversy. The pivotal moment came in the fifth round when Dubois landed a shot that dropped Usyk, but the referee deemed it a low blow. Many believed it was borderline. While Usyk recovered and went on to win, debates have raged ever since — was the punch legal, and did Usyk exaggerate the damage?

Now, as the rematch draws near, Usyk’s camp is making it clear: they’re not just brushing off the past — they’re leaning into it.

Over 20 Photos, One Message

In a media event that felt more like a courtroom presentation than a press conference, Usyk’s camp unveiled a series of over 20 photographs — each one supposedly capturing a low blow from Dubois during their first fight. Each image bears Usyk’s autograph, as if to authenticate the pain and injustice he claims to have endured in the ring.

“We’re not doing this for drama,” said Usyk’s manager, Egis Klimas. “We’re doing it because facts matter. Dubois fought dirty, and it needs to be seen. These are not just random shots — these are deliberate, repeated fouls.”

The photos were arranged in a timeline format, clearly labeled by round and time, further fueling the argument that Dubois consistently targeted illegal areas.

Dubois Camp Fires Back

Unsurprisingly, Dubois and his team were quick to respond.

“This is a publicity stunt, plain and simple,” said Martin Bowers, Dubois’ trainer. “They know the rematch is going to be tougher. They’re trying to play mind games and stir the pot. But we’re focused on the fight, not photo albums.”

Dubois himself shrugged off the accusation with confidence: “If they need pictures to hype themselves up, let them. I’m bringing fists, not photos, to the rematch.”

Mind Games or Legitimate Grievance?

Whether Usyk’s team is genuinely seeking justice or trying to destabilize their opponent, one thing is certain: this strategy has stirred the boxing world. Social media has exploded with fans picking sides. Some support Usyk’s evidence-driven approach, while others believe it’s psychological warfare disguised as a press campaign.

“Low blows are serious,” said former world champion Carl Froch in a recent interview. “If Dubois was consistently hitting below the belt, it needs to be called out. But doing it with autographed photos? That’s… new.”

Others see it as a clever tactic to paint Dubois as a dirty fighter before the first bell even rings.

Usyk’s Quiet but Clear Message

For his part, Usyk has remained mostly silent. Known for his calm demeanor and focused mindset, he’s let the photos — and his team — do the talking. Still, during a brief media appearance, he gave a telling response when asked about the photo stunt:

“I sign things that matter,” he said with a smirk.

Countdown to War

With the rematch set to be one of the biggest heavyweight events of the year, this controversy adds another layer of intrigue. Whether it’s gamesmanship or a genuine attempt to bring attention to questionable tactics, Usyk’s camp has succeeded in one thing: everyone’s talking.

As the fighters prepare to enter the ring again, only one question remains: will the rematch settle the score — or start a new chapter in one of boxing’s most heated rivalries?

All eyes are now on fight night.