Remilekun Awokoya
Daniel Dubois delivered a career-defining performance on Saturday night, stopping Anthony Joshua in the fifth round to retain the IBF heavyweight title at Wembley Stadium.
The 27-year-old Londoner dropped Joshua multiple times before landing a devastating counter right hook that ended the contest, securing the biggest win of his 24-fight career, according to BBC.
The victory leaves Joshua’s future in question and marks a stunning fall for the former champion.
“Are you not entertained?” Dubois shouted to the cheering crowd in the packed stadium. “I’m a gladiator. I am a warrior to the bitter end. I want to get to the top level of this sport and reach my potential.”
Joshua, 34, was bidding to become a three-time world champion, but his hopes were dashed in dramatic fashion.
The former champion, who first won a world title over eight years ago, suffered his fourth loss in 32 bouts. Despite the defeat, Joshua hinted at continuing his career and revealed he has a rematch clause with Dubois.
“You know I’m ready to kick off in the ring, but I’m going to keep it respectful,” Joshua said. “Before I came here, I always said to myself, I’m a fighter for life. You keep rolling the dice.”
For Dubois, the victory was a crowning moment, finally securing the recognition he had missed when he was elevated to world champion after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt.
His emphatic win over Joshua solidifies his place as a major force in the heavyweight division.