London, UK (June 3, 2024) - Reports indicate that a colossal all-British clash between former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and fast-rising contender and IBF interim title holder Daniel Dubois is being negotiated for Wembley Stadium in September. This potential barn-burner promises a massive payday and a significant step closer to a shot at undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

The Rebuilding Journey of Anthony Joshua

Anthony Joshua, following his two losses to Oleksandr Usyk, has been on a mission to rebuild his confidence and sharpen his craft. The British superstar has displayed admirable resilience, maintaining an active fight schedule and demonstrating the attitude of a hungry contender.

In his first fight after the Usyk losses, Joshua faced American Jermaine Franklin, delivering a solid performance that earned him a unanimous decision. He then took on Robert Helenius, who stepped in on short notice. Despite the circumstances, Helenius put up a respectable showing, but Joshua ultimately stopped him in seven rounds.

Joshua's most recent bout saw him dominate Otto Wallin, a credible contender who had previously gone the distance with Tyson Fury and secured the opportunity by outpointing Murat Gassiev in Armenia. Joshua’s performance against Wallin showcased signs of his early career aggression, indicating that he may have regained the confidence that was shaken by his shocking loss to Andy Ruiz at Madison Square Garden in 2019.

Daniel Dubois: The Rising Contender

At just 26 years old, Daniel Dubois is rapidly becoming the feel-good story of the heavyweight division. After suffering a setback agsinst Joe Joyce that saw him tagged as an exposed glass-cannon, Dubois slowly silenced his critics with a string of impressive performances against lesser opposition. His resurgence began with a contentious bout against Oleksandr Usyk, where Dubois showed aggression and tenacity, even though he was eventually stopped in the ninth round.

Dubois’s true comeback story unfolded later in 2023 when he faced the undefeated and outspoken Jarrell Miller in Riyadh. Despite many assuming Miller’s relentless pressure would break Dubois, the London power-puncher weathered the storm and retaliated with fierce counterattacks. Dubois demonstrated improved stamina and determination, eventually stopping Miller in the ninth round. This victory marked his transition from an overhyped prospect to a legitimate top-10 contender.

Dubois’s credibility was further enhanced in his latest bout against undefeated IBF mandatory Filip Hrgovic. Many viewed this as a step too far for Dubois, but he once again proved his mettle by absorbing Hrgovic’s hardest shots and launching a relentless offensive. Despite leading with his head and causing some clashes, Dubois’s aggression and power overwhelmed Hrgovic, culminating in an eighth-round stoppage that secured Dubois the IBF interim title and firmly established him as a serious threat to the top of the heavyweight rankings.

Clash of Styles and Stakes

Both Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois fight out of the orthodox stance, relying on solid fundamentals, aggression, and power. Joshua, with his experience and technical prowess, would be the bookmakers' pick in this clash. However, Dubois’s recent performances have shown that he is more than capable of upsetting the odds and proving his doubters wrong.

For Joshua, this fight represents an opportunity to cement his comeback and position himself to face another top contender, potentially leading to a third meeting with Usyk. For Dubois, a victory over Joshua would catapult him into position for another top level clash and another shot at the heavyweight champion.

Potential Outcome

This fight is a risky proposition for both, hinging on which version of each fighter shows up on fight night. Joshua’s speed, technical skills, and experience give him a significant edge, but Dubois’s newfound confidence, power, and aggressive style make him a dangerous assignment.

If Joshua can leverage his agility and ring IQ, he could stop Dubois or secure a decision victory. On the other hand, if Dubois maintains his aggressive approach and lands his powerful shots, he has the potential to score a stoppage and shock the boxing world once again.