On July 19, 2025, the boxing world turned its attention to Wembley Stadium in London, England, where Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois will clash in a highly anticipated rematch for the undisputed heavyweight championship. This blockbuster fight, dubbed “Usyk vs Dubois 2,” promises to be a defining moment in boxing history, with the winner claiming the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF, and Ring Magazine heavyweight titles.
The stakes couldn’t be higher, as Usyk aims to reclaim his undisputed crown, while Dubois seeks to cement his legacy as Britain’s first undisputed heavyweight champion in the four-belt era. This article dives deep into every aspect of this monumental bout, addressing the questions fans have been asking online and providing the latest insights based on available information.
The First Encounter: Usyk vs Dubois (August 2023)
The saga of Usyk vs Dubois began on August 26, 2023, at Stadion Wrocław in Poland. Oleksandr Usyk, then the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO, and Ring Magazine heavyweight champion, faced Daniel Dubois, the WBA (Regular) titleholder. The fight was a mandatory title defense for Usyk, following Dubois’ victories over Trevor Bryan and Kevin Lerena, which earned him the mandatory challenger status.
The first fight was not without controversy. In the fifth round, Dubois landed a powerful body shot that dropped Usyk to the canvas. However, referee Luis Pabon ruled it a low blow, granting Usyk up to five minutes to recover. Dubois and his team vehemently disputed the call, believing it was a legal punch that could have led to a knockout victory.
Despite the setback, Usyk regained his composure, systematically wore Dubois down, and secured a ninth-round knockout. According to CompuBox stats, Usyk outlanded Dubois in every round, landing 88 of 359 punches (24.5%) compared to Dubois’ 47 of 290 (16.2%). The low blow controversy remains a hot topic, fueling anticipation for the rematch.
Usyk’s Rise to Greatness
Oleksandr Usyk, a 38-year-old Ukrainian southpaw, is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of his generation. A 2012 Olympic gold medalist and former undisputed cruiserweight champion, Usyk transitioned to heavyweight in 2019 and has since defeated top contenders like Anthony Joshua (twice) and Tyson Fury (twice).
His first victory over Fury in May 2024 made him the first undisputed heavyweight champion in the four-belt era, a feat not accomplished since Lennox Lewis in 1999. However, Usyk was forced to vacate the IBF title in June 2024 due to mandatory challenger obligations, setting the stage for Dubois to claim it. Usyk’s record stands at an impeccable 23-0, with 14 knockouts, and his technical mastery and ring IQ make him a formidable opponent.
Dubois’ Redemption Arc
Daniel Dubois, a 27-year-old Londoner known as “Dynamite,” has undergone a remarkable transformation since his loss to Usyk in 2023. After suffering defeats to Joe Joyce in 2020 and Usyk, Dubois bounced back with a string of impressive victories. He stopped Jarrell Miller in December 2023, Filip Hrgovic in June 2024 to claim the IBF interim title, and most notably, Anthony Joshua in September 2024, defending his IBF title with a fifth-round knockout.
These wins have elevated Dubois to No. 3 in the heavyweight rankings by The Ring, with a record of 22-2, including 21 knockouts. His 95% knockout rate underscores his devastating power, which he hopes to leverage in the rematch.
The Stakes: Undisputed Glory
The rematch is a unification bout, with Usyk defending his WBA (Super), WBC, WBO, and Ring Magazine titles against Dubois’ IBF title. The winner will be crowned the undisputed heavyweight champion, a title that carries immense prestige in boxing. For Usyk, a victory would make him a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion, a rare achievement previously accomplished only by Muhammad Ali in the two-belt era.
For Dubois, a win would mark him as the first British undisputed champion in the four-belt era, surpassing even Lennox Lewis’ legacy. The fight is billed as “Undisputed Resolution,” reflecting the high stakes and the unresolved tension from their first encounter.
Fight Details: Date, Time, and Venue
Usyk vs Dubois 2 is scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Wembley Stadium in London, England. The iconic venue, capable of hosting up to 96,000 spectators for boxing events, is expected to see a near-sellout crowd, with reports suggesting over 90,000 tickets sold. The main event ring walks are set for approximately 9:45 PM BST (4:45 PM ET / 1:45 PM PT), with the fight starting shortly thereafter. The undercard begins at 5:30 PM BST (12:30 PM ET / 9:30 AM PT).
How to Watch?
The fight will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN pay-per-view, priced at £24.99 in the UK, $59.99 in the US, and $19.99 or equivalent in other regions. DAZN’s coverage starts at 5:30 PM BST, with live text commentary and photo updates available on Al Jazeera and ESPN. In the UK, BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds will provide live radio commentary, while the BBC Sport website and app will offer live text updates from 8:00 PM BST and video highlights on Sunday.
Ticket Information and Hospitality
General admission tickets are available through Wembley Stadium’s official website, with VIP hospitality packages offering ringside views, luxury suites, champagne receptions, and gourmet cuisine. A restricted bag policy is in place, and the venue operates cashless payments. Under-14s must be accompanied by an adult, and no children under 2 are permitted. Wembley Stadium also offers BSL interpretation for accessibility.
The Controversy: Revisiting the Low Blow
The fifth-round low blow in the first fight remains a focal point. Dubois’ team insists the punch was legal, arguing it landed above Usyk’s waistline. Dubois himself stated post-fight, “I didn’t think that was a low blow. I thought that landed, and I’ve been cheated out of victory.” Usyk’s promoter, Alex Krassyuk, countered that the punch was below the belly button, a view supported by boxers like Tony Bellew and Liam Smith.
The WBA upheld the referee’s decision after review, but the controversy has fueled Dubois’ motivation for redemption. At the rematch’s press conference, Dubois called the punch “from the Gods,” signaling his belief in its legitimacy. Fans and analysts continue to debate the call, making it a key narrative heading into the rematch.
Betting Odds and Predictions
As of July 19, 2025, Usyk is the betting favorite at -460, with Dubois listed as the +250 underdog. Earlier odds had Usyk at -950 and Dubois at +530, indicating a tightening of the betting line as fight night approached, likely due to Dubois’ recent knockout of Joshua. Bookmakers give Usyk a 75% chance of victory, citing his experience and undefeated record. However, some experts, including Lennox Lewis, predict a Dubois upset, pointing to his youth, power, and momentum.
Analysts suggest Usyk will aim to outbox Dubois, using lateral movement to avoid power shots and targeting Dubois’ stamina, which faltered in their first fight. Dubois, conversely, will likely press forward, looking to land body shots and capitalize on any signs of Usyk aging. A knockout is possible for either fighter, but Usyk’s technical edge makes him the likely winner via decision or late stoppage.
Training and Preparation
Usyk’s Camp: Usyk has been training rigorously, with social media posts showcasing his speed and conditioning. His team, led by promoter Alex Krassyuk and CEO Sergey Lapin, emphasizes his readiness to reclaim the undisputed title. Usyk’s preparation includes sparring with light heavyweight Daniel Lapin, who is also on the undercard, to simulate Dubois’ size and power. Usyk’s mental fortitude, honed by his experiences during Ukraine’s ongoing conflict, adds to his focus.
Dubois’ Camp: Dubois has been working with trainer Don Charles and assistant Kieran Farrell, focusing on refining his power-based style while improving his defense. Charles, a former trainer of Derek Chisora, has instilled discipline and confidence in Dubois, evident in his recent performances. Dubois’ father, a key influence, has guided his career, and the fighter credits his team for his growth since 2023. Dubois’ camp is centered at the Farm gym, where he’s honed his explosive punching.
Fan and Media Buzz
The fight has generated significant excitement on social media, particularly on X, where posts highlight Usyk’s technical brilliance and Dubois’ knockout potential. DAZN’s promotional videos, including Usyk’s top five moments, have garnered attention, while BoxingKingdom14 reported strong ticket sales, predicting over 90,000 attendees. The event is part of a stacked fight day, with Ariel Helwani noting it alongside PFL Africa 1, UFC 318, and Barrios vs. Pacquiao, calling it an “all-time day” for combat sports.
Media coverage has focused on the low blow controversy, Usyk’s legacy, and Dubois’ redemption arc. Outlets like BBC Sport, Al Jazeera, and ESPN emphasize the fight’s historical significance, with Steve Bunce providing daily updates via his 5 Live Boxing podcast. The weigh-in at Boxpark Wembley, open to the public, is expected to draw a large crowd for the final face-off.
Historical Context and Legacy
Usyk vs Dubois 2 is a pivotal moment in heavyweight boxing. Usyk’s potential to become a two-time undisputed champion places him among legends like Ali, while Dubois could join Lennox Lewis as a British icon. The four-belt era, which began with the WBO’s inclusion, has never seen a British undisputed champion, making Dubois’ challenge historic. The fight also reflects the global nature of boxing, with Ukraine’s Usyk fighting in London, supported by a partisan crowd cheering for Dubois.
Usyk’s journey, from cruiserweight dominance to heavyweight supremacy, underscores his versatility. His participation in Ukraine’s war efforts adds a layer of national pride to his quest. Dubois, meanwhile, represents a new generation of heavyweights, with his youth and power contrasting Usyk’s experience. The outcome will shape the division’s future, with contenders like Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang awaiting the winner.
FAQs
Where will the Usyk vs Dubois 2 fight take place?
The venue for the rematch has not been officially announced yet. The first fight took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and the second fight could either be held there again or in a major boxing hotspot like the UK, Ukraine, or the USA, depending on promotional deals.
What was the result of the first Usyk vs Dubois fight?
Oleksandr Usyk won the first fight against Daniel Dubois by unanimous decision. Usyk showcased his superior boxing skills, movement, and experience to outpoint Dubois over 12 rounds, maintaining his status as the unified heavyweight champion.
Why is there a rematch between Usyk and Dubois?
Daniel Dubois earned a rematch clause after his first fight with Usyk. The first bout was competitive at times, and Dubois showed potential despite losing. Fans and promoters are excited to see if Dubois can adjust and challenge Usyk’s dominance in the second fight.
How did the first fight go? What were the key moments?
The fight started intensely with Dubois applying pressure, but Usyk’s footwork, timing, and combination punching wore Dubois down as the rounds progressed. Usyk controlled the pace and distance, avoiding Dubois’ power shots, which led to a clear points victory.
In Summary
Usyk vs Dubois 2 is more than a rematch; it’s a clash of styles, legacies, and unresolved grievances. Oleksandr Usyk, the technical genius, seeks to solidify his place among boxing’s all-time greats, while Daniel Dubois, the resurgent power puncher, aims to shock the world and claim undisputed glory.
With Wembley Stadium as the backdrop, a global audience on DAZN, and a narrative fueled by controversy, this fight is poised to be a classic. Whether Usyk’s skill prevails or Dubois’ power proves decisive, July 19, 2025, will be a night boxing fans won’t forget. Tune in, place your bets, and witness history in the making.
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