Jake Paul’s victory over a faded Mike Tyson has led to call-outs from numerous world champion boxers but none more surprising than current IBF heavyweight champion, Daniel Dubois. Now, Frank Warren has provided an update on whether he would consider making such a left-field fight.
Dubois was upgraded from interim IBF title-holder to full champion when Oleksandr Usyk vacated the strap shortly after his undisputed title victory against Tyson Fury – a fine reward for his stoppage wins against Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic.
However, many expected that the reign of ‘Triple D’ would be cut short within months as he agreed to a showdown with two-time champion Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium.
Yet, to the surprise of many, Dubois was able to put an end to ‘AJ’s’ newfound form under Ben Davison and dominate the contest from the opening bell onwards, scoring four knockdowns within five rounds, the last of which brought the bout to a close.
DANIEL DUBOIS KOs ANTHONY JOSHUA 😱😱
OH MY.
(via @DAZNBoxing)pic.twitter.com/9MnNcGhZ8L
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 21, 2024
The pair were expected to meet again on February 22nd in Riyadh, but it has since been confirmed that Joshua will not be ready for that fight date, leaving Dubois to search for a new dance-partner for a second voluntary defence of his belt.
Whilst it seemed as though Agit Kabayel could be the man being lined up for that title shot, Dubois shockingly sent Jake Paul a direct message on social media and offered him the chance to fight for the coveted heavyweight crown, following his decision win against ‘Iron Mike’.
In an interview with BoxNation, Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren admitted that he would make Dubois vs. Paul ‘in a heartbeat’, but had his reservations as to whether Paul would dare to step into the ring with the hard-hitting champion.
“No one can offer any fights on behalf of Daniel except me and Queensberry, that is number one.
“Number two, would we do that fight? In a heartbeat. Would Jake do it? No, I don’t think so. He is certainly not ready to be fighting a Daniel Dubois!”
“Daniel’s next fight will be sorted out very, very soon.”
With news of Dubois’ February opponent expected imminently, it seems as though Dubois offer was not a serious one for the time being and that the 27-year-old Londonder will indeed fight a recognised contender in less than three months’ time.
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