Usyk vs. Dubois Rematch Confirmed for July: What to Expect in the Heavyweight Title Clash
In one of the most highly anticipated boxing announcements of the year, the rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois has been officially confirmed for July 27, 2025, set to take place in Wembley Stadium, London. The event will see Usyk defend his unified heavyweight titles, while Dubois seeks redemption after a controversial first meeting in 2023.
This bout is not only a continuation of a personal rivalry but also a major moment in the ongoing reshaping of the heavyweight division.
Background: The Controversial First Fight
The two first met in August 2023, in a fight that ended in controversy:
- Dubois knocked Usyk down in Round 5 with what was ruled a low blow, though replays showed it was borderline.
- Usyk was given several minutes to recover.
- He ultimately retained his titles via ninth-round TKO, but the ruling sparked outrage from the Dubois camp.
Dubois and promoter Frank Warren argued that the referee’s decision deprived them of a legitimate win, prompting a series of appeals and public campaigns for a rematch.
Usyk’s Current Status: The Champion to Beat
Oleksandr Usyk, the Ukrainian southpaw and Olympic gold medalist, remains undefeated (22–0) and holds the WBA, WBO, IBF, and IBO heavyweight belts.
Strengths:
- Footwork and timing unmatched in the division
- Experience at cruiserweight and heavyweight, including wins over Anthony Joshua (twice)
- Mental composure and elite ring IQ
He last fought in early 2025, defeating Filip Hrgović by unanimous decision in a dominant performance, proving he is still at his peak at 38 years old.
Usyk on the rematch:
“He [Dubois] wants another chance. I will give him one. This time, we end the debate.”
Dubois’ Redemption Path
Since the 2023 loss, Daniel Dubois has rebuilt his career impressively:
- Secured three straight wins by knockout
- Improved stamina and footwork under new trainer Shane McGuigan
- Now holds the WBA interim belt
Dubois (21–2) enters this fight with confidence, physical power, and the narrative of a fighter wronged and reformed.
In a recent interview, he stated:
“Last time, I should’ve been champion. This time, there’s no room for doubt. I’m bringing the belts home.”
Tactical Breakdown
✅ Usyk’s Game Plan
- Use of lateral movement and angles to avoid Dubois’ power shots
- Targeting the body to slow Dubois down over time
- Late-round acceleration, as seen in his Joshua and Chisora fights
✅ Dubois’ Strategy
- Aggressive early rounds to pressure Usyk
- Focus on timing the left hand over Usyk’s jab
- Improved conditioning to avoid fading in the second half
Key Factor: Can Dubois land clean early? If not, Usyk’s movement could dominate the fight.
Global Anticipation and Media Buzz
This rematch has captured the attention of both hardcore and casual fans, due to:
- The controversy of their first meeting
- The styles: technician vs. power puncher
- The legacy implications: Usyk’s undefeated run and Dubois’ career redemption
Wembley Stadium is expected to sell out its 90,000 capacity, making it one of the biggest boxing events in the UK in recent years.
Promoters are also capitalizing on the narrative, releasing a four-part docuseries on the build-up via streaming platforms and YouTube, titled “Unfinished Business: Usyk vs. Dubois”.
What’s at Stake?
- Undisputed status: Should Tyson Fury vacate or retire, the winner could claim lineal dominance
- Career-defining moment for Dubois
- Pound-for-pound credibility for Usyk if he wins again convincingly
- Financial windfall for both fighters, with estimated purses over $10 million each
Expert Predictions
Boxing analysts are split:
- 60% favor Usyk by late-round TKO or unanimous decision
- 40% believe Dubois has matured and could land the big shot early
ESPN’s boxing editor wrote:
“If Dubois can’t hurt Usyk in the first five rounds, it becomes a masterclass from the Ukrainian maestro.”
Conclusion: A Fight That Could Shape the Future of the Heavyweight Division
As we approach July 27, 2025, all eyes will be on Wembley Stadium for the Usyk vs. Dubois rematch. It’s more than just a title defense — it’s a clash of redemption and legacy, power and precision.
The outcome could reshape the heavyweight landscape and add a dramatic new chapter to one of boxing’s most intriguing modern rivalries.