Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua has expressed disinterest in the upcoming rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois, making it clear he feels disconnected from the high-profile contest scheduled for July 19 in London.
Speaking to Box Nation's YouTube channel, the 35-year-old British heavyweight was straightforward about his position: "I don't want to discuss the Usyk-Dubois rematch! Let them settle their business between themselves, it doesn't concern me. I'm not arguing that their second fight will probably be great. But I have nothing to do with it. I want to focus only on what matters to me."
Joshua went further by suggesting that New Zealand's Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) is more deserving of challenging the winner of the Usyk-Dubois rematch than himself, despite his own status as a former champion.
The first encounter between Usyk and Dubois in August 2023 ended with the Ukrainian securing a ninth-round knockout victory. However, the bout featured controversy in the fifth round when Dubois landed a punch to Usyk's midsection that sent him to the canvas. The referee ruled it a low blow and allowed Usyk recovery time – a decision that sparked outrage from Dubois's team, leading to an unsuccessful appeal by promoter Frank Warren.
The lead-up to the rematch has already seen tension, with Dubois shoving Usyk during their face-off at Wembley Stadium. According to boxing analysts at Statbet, such pre-fight confrontations often translate to heightened intensity in the ring, particularly in heavyweight rematches where both fighters have significant adjustments to make.
Usyk remains undefeated with a 23-0 record (14 KOs), while Dubois stands at 22-2 with 21 knockouts, highlighting his considerable punching power. The Ukrainian champion has also recently discussed plans regarding what might be his final professional bout, though that appears to be looking beyond the immediate challenge of Dubois.
