Tim Mcgrady
Excitement is brewing in the boxing world as Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois reportedly move closer to finalizing a deal for their highly anticipated rematch. Organizers are targeting a pivotal date—July 12—at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London, with all four major sanctioning body belts on the line. According to Ring Magazine, both camps are diligently working to lock in the details, which could mark a significant chapter in heavyweight boxing.
Promoter Frank Warren addressed the ongoing negotiations during a talkSPORT interview, stating, “Not at the moment, nothing done at all. There have been talks, but nothing is done yet. Talking goes on, and I hope it comes true.” This sentiment underscores the intense anticipation surrounding the fight, even as discussions continue.
The backdrop to this rematch is layered with complexity. Recently, a request was made to the WBO to allow this fight to take precedence over Usyk’s mandatory defense against interim champion Joseph Parker. WBO president Gustavo Olivieri confirmed, “There is a petition before the Championship Committee to consider a Usyk-Dubois unification to consolidate the heavyweight championships.” The committee’s ruling will play a crucial role in determining the legitimacy and timeline of the potential rematch.
After Usyk’s victory over Martin Bakole in February, the WBO mandated a title defense against Parker. Simultaneously, the IBF indicated plans to have Dubois defend his belt against Derek Chisora by April 22. However, these mandates could be superseded if the WBO Championship Committee prioritizes Usyk versus Dubois over the proposed mandatory fights.
As of now, the Championship Committee’s decision remains undisclosed, but if it allows Usyk-Dubois to proceed, fans could witness an epic showdown for the undisputed heavyweight title. The stakes couldn’t be higher for both fighters, as Usyk seeks to reclaim his unified status after having to vacate his IBF title in pursuit of a bout against Tyson Fury.
The first bout between these two heavyweight giants in August 2023 ended with Usyk winning by a ninth-round knockout—a match remembered for its controversial moment when Dubois knocked Usyk down. The legality of that shot continues to spark debate among fans and analysts alike. The referee ruled it an illegal punch, granting Usyk time to recover before securing the victory with a powerful jab.
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