"Next man up," said Anthony Joshua ahead of his IBF heavyweight title challenge against Daniel Dubois on September 21 at Wembley Stadium in London. Joshua and Dubois are familiar with each other, having had previous altercations and sparring sessions. With Oleksandr Usyk vacating the title before his rematch with Tyson Fury in December, Dubois has now stepped into the champion's role, and Joshua admits he had always anticipated a possible future bout with Dubois.
"I’ve had Dubois on my mind for a while, and he’ll be on my mind for the next 12 weeks until I get my hand raised," Joshua stated. He acknowledged that while Dubois isn't mentioned in the same breath as Tyson Fury or Deontay Wilder, he has always kept an eye on him and other heavyweights, preparing to face whoever it will be.
Joshua's immediate focus is on having a good training camp. He emphasized the importance of maintaining his physical and mental health, noting his lifestyle choices have kept him in peak condition. "Age is just a number in this one," Joshua remarked, confident in his preparation and fitness for the fight.
Dubois, who was presented with the belt following his interim title victory over Filip Hrgovic, expressed his readiness and excitement. "I’m learning more about myself, coming out of the darkness and into the light, being the man of the future and improving all around as a fighter and an athlete. I’m really up for this," said Dubois. He aims to dethrone Joshua, whom he respects as a long-time king of the division, and is prepared to train intensely for the challenge.
Promoters Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn expressed confidence in their fighters. Warren believes it’s Dubois’ moment, highlighting his youth, power, and finishing ability. Hearn, meanwhile, emphasized the significance of Joshua potentially defeating another champion to reclaim a world title and is optimistic about Joshua's chances not only against Dubois but also against the winner of the Fury-Usyk rematch. Both promoters agree that the fight promises to be an exciting and fierce contest.
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