Don Charles, Daniel Dubois' coach, is still on cloud nine following the biggest win of his career, despite having battled the flu throughout fight week. His fighter, Dubois, achieved a major upset by stopping Anthony Joshua in front of a record-breaking crowd at Wembley Stadium. Charles, who was sidelined for much of fight week due to illness, brushed off any rumors of a rift in the camp, laughing at the speculation. "I was just ill," Charles said, dismissing claims of tension. "I still managed to be there for my guy when it mattered."
Reflecting on the fight, Charles is confident Dubois has far more to offer, estimating that the 27-year-old is currently operating at just 70% of his full potential. "He’s developing, and we’re putting layers on him," Charles explained, adding that Dubois' power and fitness make him a dangerous opponent. Dubois is still growing, and Charles believes he’s destined to become the undisputed heavyweight champion. "The future is bright," Charles said, pointing out that Dubois' limited amateur career and low mileage as a pro give him a lot of room to improve.
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Despite the massive win over Joshua, Charles still harbors frustration over Dubois' controversial loss to Oleksandr Usyk in Poland. Charles argues that Dubois deserved the win, insisting that a low blow call saved Usyk. *"He shut Usyk’s system down,"*Charles claimed, "but he was let off by the referee." Despite the Poland setback, Dubois has gone on an impressive run, defeating Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and now Joshua in just 14 months.
Looking ahead, Charles is ready for whatever comes next, whether it’s a rematch with Joshua or a shot at the winner of Usyk-Fury. "If it’s Joshua, the answer is YES. And if it’s the winner out of Usyk and Fury, I would also welcome that," Charles said. He remains confident that Dubois is even better equipped now to handle Usyk if they meet again.
As for 2024, Charles suggests Dubois might not fight again until 2025 after an incredibly active 12 months. "He’s probably the most active heavyweight in the world right now," Charles said. Given the heavyweight's success, Charles is certain that Dubois deserves to be considered for Fighter of the Year honors. "Categorically, YES," he added with a grin.
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