Daniel Dubois seeks 'to legitimize' himself with Anthony Joshua scalp

Daniel Dubois, aged 27, asserts the necessity of validating his position as the IBF world heavyweight champion by proving himself as a formidable force in British boxing against Anthony Joshua, 34, at a sold-out Wembley Stadium this Saturday.

The match is expected to attract a record post-war British audience of 96,000 spectators.

Dubois secured the interim IBF title in June and ascended to the status of world champion following Oleksandr Usyk's decision to vacate the title.

"I must defend this world title," Dubois stated during the pre-fight press conference on Thursday. "While it is an honor to hold this title, I need to establish my legitimacy by winning this bout."

In a previous sparring session in 2016, Dubois showcased his power to Joshua, who later admitted to being shaken by Dubois's performance.

Now, eight years later, Dubois holds a record of 21 wins and 2 losses, with 20 of those victories achieved by knockout.

"I am on an upward trajectory, and I have the momentum in my favor," he remarked. "It is time for action, not words—I'm prepared to fight and dominate!"

Joshua, on the other hand, has been working towards a comeback since losing his titles to Usyk in 2021 and subsequently in a rematch the following year. He has regained his position as the mandatory challenger through four decisive victories.

"It feels great to be back," Joshua expressed. "I am ready to compete and demonstrate my capabilities once again."

Promoter Frank Warren has characterized this fight as Britain's equivalent to the legendary three-round clash between Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns in 1985.

"We have two powerful punchers and exceptional boxers who are both on winning streaks. They have experienced their share of challenges, and we are certain to witness something extraordinary," Warren commented.

"This matchup features a two-time world champion against an emerging talent who possesses significant punching power, potentially even greater than that of AJ. I am confident that this heavyweight contest will be as thrilling as Britain's Hagler-Hearns."