The boxing world is abuzz with rumors and speculations surrounding Anthony Joshua’s upcoming fight, which is reportedly close to being announced for a press conference on June 26th. Promoter Eddie Hearn teased fans by hinting that Joshua’s opponent for the September 21st clash at Wembley Stadium in London will be none other than Daniel Dubois. While this matchup promises to be an exciting one, it also raises concerns about the risks involved.
It is speculated that Zhilei Zhang was also in the running to face Joshua, posing a more dangerous threat due to his counter-punching ability, one-punch power, strong chin, and southpaw stance. The fear of Zhang causing an upset similar to his victories over Joe Joyce and Deontay Wilder looms large, potentially jeopardizing Joshua’s future plans, including a highly anticipated bout with Tyson Fury.
However, the focus seems to be on Daniel Dubois as the chosen opponent for Joshua. Dubois, fresh off impressive wins over Filip Hrgovic and Jarrell Miller, exudes confidence that could prove to be a challenge for Joshua. With Joshua turning 35 in October and Dubois displaying his prowess in recent matches, there is a lingering doubt about Joshua’s ability to overcome this younger and determined opponent.
Commentators have predicted a short but intense battle between Joshua and Dubois, with expectations that the fight may not go beyond six rounds. While the brevity of the fight might suggest an easy victory for Joshua, it also hints at potential challenges and adversities that he may have to face against a resilient opponent like Dubois.
Despite Eddie Hearn’s strategic matchmaking to rebuild Joshua’s career after his setbacks, questions remain about the authenticity of this rebuilding process. Joshua’s last four opponents, including Francis Ngannou and Otto Wallin, have not truly tested his capabilities as a heavyweight champion. In comparison, Dubois has faced tougher opposition, raising doubts about Joshua’s readiness to confront a formidable challenger like Dubois.
The comparison between the opponents faced by Joshua and Dubois in their recent fights reveals a stark contrast in the level of competition. While Dubois has taken on top-tier boxers like Hrgovic and Miller, Joshua’s selection of opponents has been criticized for lacking the competitive edge necessary to prepare him for a battle against someone like Dubois.
The recent collaboration between Joshua and trainer Ben Davison has sparked optimism about Joshua’s performance in the upcoming fight. However, doubts linger about whether Davison’s influence can truly make a difference, especially considering that Joshua’s past trainers could have achieved similar results with the level of opposition he faced in his last four fights.
The potential matchup between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois presents an intriguing narrative of experience versus youth, confidence versus legacy. As the boxing world waits in anticipation for the official announcement of this much-anticipated fight, the outcome remains uncertain, leaving fans and critics alike pondering the implications of this high-stakes battle in the world of heavyweight boxing.