Tony Bellew’s Controversial Prediction: Will Daniel Dubois Overcome Oleksandr Usyk?
As the anticipation builds for the highly anticipated rematch between Daniel Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk this summer, boxing pundit Tony Bellew has stirred the waters with his bold predictions. The stakes are high as both fighters prepare to clash once more for the undisputed heavyweight championship, but Bellew’s commentary has sparked significant debate within the boxing community.
The First Encounter: A Defining Moment
Dubois and Usyk first squared off in 2023, a match that generated considerable buzz—not only for the action but also for the controversy surrounding a low blow from Dubois and his inability to recover in time during the ninth round. This sequence of events led to Dubois experiencing his second stoppage loss, a moment that weighs heavily on his psyche.
For Bellew, understanding this first encounter is crucial, as he draws from it to predict the outcome of their upcoming bout. In an interview with TalkSPORT, Bellew elaborated on his forecast, asserting that he believes Dubois will face another tough fight.
The Prediction: A Rocky Road Ahead for Dubois
Bellew opined, "I predict that Dubois will likely be stopped between rounds eight and twelve." His insights delve deeper into the mental struggle fighters face, particularly emphasizing the internal battle Dubois may encounter:
"The first time you say ‘no mas’ or ‘I can’t fight no more’ is the hardest thing in your life. Once you’ve done it once, it only gets easier from there on in. He [Usyk] is the man who can take you back to that place."
As Bellew observes, Dubois has already experienced that emotional struggle, raising questions about his capacity to withstand a fighter like Usyk when the going gets tough.
A Criticized Perspective: Frank Warren Responds
Bellew’s forthright analysis didn’t sit well with everyone. Frank Warren, Dubois’ promoter, voiced his discontent, characterizing Bellew’s remarks as unnecessarily harsh and "nasty." He recalled Bellew’s history of making provocative comments, particularly when referring to Dubois’ earlier challenges, stating:
"I think he’s just a nasty bas***d at times. That’s it."
Despite the backlash, Bellew maintains that his critiques come from a place of respect for the sport and for what Dubois has achieved thus far.
The Countdown to July 19
As the rematch approaches on July 19 at Wembley Stadium, all eyes will be on these two heavyweight contenders. Will Tony Bellew’s prediction hold true, or can Dubois turn the tide and prove the naysayers wrong?
Boxing fans are eager to find out, as every prediction will soon be put to the test in the ring. The intrigue around this bout lies not just in the rivalry between the fighters, but also in the psychological dimensions that can influence the outcome.
For further insights and updates leading up to the match, be sure to check out the latest articles from BBC Sport and other boxing news outlets.
In this electrifying landscape of heavyweight boxing, where strategy meets sheer willpower, the story of Dubois vs. Usyk unfolds—leaving fans eagerly awaiting the drama to come.
