Oleksandr Usyk solidified his status as one of boxing’s all-time greats on Saturday night, delivering a stunning fifth-round knockout against Daniel Dubois to reclaim the undisputed heavyweight championship at Wembley Stadium.
The rematch, attended by 90,000 fans, saw the Ukrainian star dominate the British challenger, adding the IBF title to his WBA, WBC, and WBO belts.
It was a highly anticipated clash following their controversial 2023 encounter, also won by Usyk.
From the opening bell, Usyk, 38, controlled the pace with sharp jabs and elusive footwork, frustrating Dubois, who struggled to land significant punches.
The Ukrainian’s counter-punching was on full display, particularly his southpaw cross, which repeatedly stung the 27-year-old Londoner.
In the fifth round, Dubois attempted to turn the tide, backing Usyk into a corner with a flurry of punches.
However, Usyk responded with a devastating right hook behind the ear, sending Dubois to the canvas.
Though Dubois beat the count, a crushing left hand moments later left him unable to continue, prompting referee Mike Griffin to stop the fight at 1:52 of the round.
“I want to say thank you to Jesus Christ, my team, and Wembley,” Usyk said in a post-fight interview with DAZN. “It’s for the people.”
When asked about his next opponent, Usyk remained noncommittal, stating, “I want to rest. My family, my wife, my children. I want to go back home.”
Dubois, now 22-3 with 21 knockouts, acknowledged Usyk’s superiority. “I gave everything I had,” he told DAZN. “Take no credit away from the man. I’ll be back.”
The victory marks Usyk’s third time as undisputed champion, having previously held all major belts at cruiserweight and heavyweight.
His professional record stands at an unblemished 24-0, with 15 knockouts.
The fight dispelled any lingering doubts from their 2023 bout in Poland, where a controversial low blow call sparked debate. This time, Usyk’s performance left no room for contention.
Promoter Frank Warren confirmed that the WBO has mandated a title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, though Usyk also mentioned potential rematches with Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, or Derek Chisora.
A surprising post-fight moment saw YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul enter the ring for a face-off, which Usyk dismissed with a handshake but later entertained the idea of an MMA fight.
The undercard featured notable performances, including Lawrence Okolie’s unanimous decision win over Kevin Lerena and Daniel Lapin’s majority decision victory against Lewis Edmondson.
