Usyk Destroys Dubois Again to Reclaim Undisputed Heavyweight Crown at Wembley

Oleksandr Usyk reaffirmed his status as one of boxing’s all-time greats with a dominant fifth-round stoppage of Daniel Dubois, becoming a two-time undisputed heavyweight world champion in front of a packed Wembley Stadium.

In a clinical display, the 38-year-old Ukrainian floored Dubois twice in the fifth round before referee intervention confirmed his 24th consecutive professional win. The victory not only preserved Usyk’s unbeaten record but also saw him regain the IBF title stripped from him after his first unification of the belts in 2023 and consolidate the WBA (Super), WBO, and WBC titles.

A composed Usyk spoke to DAZN post-fight: “I’m sorry, Daniel, but this is sport. My people wanted this win. Now, I just want rest time with my family, my wife, my children. I need two or three months to recover.”

Dubois, who had previously stunned Anthony Joshua to retain the IBF belt in September, suffered the third defeat of his career, all of which have come inside the distance. The 26-year-old paid tribute to Usyk’s performance, saying, “Credit to him, I gave it everything. I’ll be back.”

Wembley’s 90,000-strong crowd witnessed a high-stakes battle from the opening bell. Although Dubois started positively behind a double jab, he struggled to contain Usyk’s slick movement and counter-punching. The southpaw landed clean shots throughout, including sharp left hands that left Dubois visibly shaken in the second round.

Looking to his father Stan in the corner for guidance between rounds, Dubois found few answers to Usyk’s rhythm and accuracy. By the fifth, the writing was on the wall. A precise left hand sent Dubois to the mat. Though he bravely rose, another clean shot moments later forced his team to throw in the towel as the referee reached a count of nine.

Boxing royalty, including Roy Jones Jr. and Frank Bruno, were ringside, while WBO interim champion Joseph Parker was also in attendance, scouting a potential future opponent.

Usyk, who has described the UK as his “second home,” was met with a warm reception from the crowd. The Olympic gold medallist’s performance further solidified his legacy at the top of the heavyweight division and potentially marked the end of an era as he hinted at a period of rest with no immediate plans.