Daniel Dubois: "I Need to Legitimise My Title"

Daniel Dubois expressed mild frustration and declined to engage with Anthony Joshua during a low-key news conference in London ahead of their highly anticipated clash. The two British heavyweights are set to fight at Wembley Stadium where they expect a record crowd of 96,000. Dubois, who won the interim IBF title in June and later became world champion when Oleksandr Usyk vacated emphasized the importance of retaining his title, stating, “I need to legitimise myself by winning this fight.”

The 27-year-old appeared eager to conclude the conference contrasting with the more conversational and respectful Joshua, 34. When the discussion turned to a previous sparring session where Dubois reportedly stunned Joshua, the champion remarked, “It was sparring, now we’re fighting; this is different,” to which Dubois responded curtly, “Move on,” before banging on the table.

Joshua an Olympic gold medalist has the chance to join boxing legends like Muhammad Ali and Lennox Lewis as a three-time champion. Reflecting on past tensions with Dubois, he advised, “You should never let anyone take an inch because they’ll end up taking a mile.” Dubois addressed rumors about his trainer Don Charles’s absence, reassuring that as long as Charles is in his corner on fight night, everything is fine.

This fight marks a pivotal moment for both fighters. For Daniel Dubois, a victory would solidify his status as a world champion. For Joshua, this bout represents the culmination of his journey back to the top following losses to Usyk. The grand Guildhall provided an impressive backdrop but the muted tone of the conference raised questions about Dubois’s mindset as he prepares for this crucial fight.

Both fighters face significant pressure knowing that a loss could dramatically alter the course of their careers.