Frank Warren, the promoter of Daniel Dubois, has issued a stark warning to former two-time heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, declaring that Dubois is the more powerful puncher ahead of their IBF heavyweight world title fight in September.
Warren, who has represented Dubois since his professional debut, expressed immense confidence in Dubois’ ability to deliver a knockout upset on September 21 at Wembley.
“I think he’s a bigger puncher than Anthony Joshua, I really do,” Warren stated on talkSPORT Breakfast show.
“Dubois is the younger guy at 26, whereas Anthony Joshua is 34. Most heavyweights don’t reach their primes until their 30s, but this young man has done well. He’s had a couple of setbacks and showed a lot of grit, especially after receiving harsh criticism for his fight against Joe Joyce, where he sustained a broken orbital bone.”
Warren highlighted Dubois’ resilience and growth, noting his impressive comeback in his last two fights where he showcased heart and determination by stopping two undefeated fighters.
“Dubois had to grit his teeth and showed a lot of heart and determination to come through against two undefeated fighters and stop both of them.”
Dubois’ recent elevation to IBF champion status, following his victory over Filip Hrgovic and Oleksandr Usyk vacating the belt, means Joshua will be challenging for the title on September 21.
The fight is set to take place in the UK, with Saudi boxing chiefs funding the event as part of the Riyadh Season. Warren anticipates a packed house, emphasizing the significance of the event as a part of the larger Riyadh Season promotion.
“This is the Wembley edition of the Riyadh Season, it’s there to promote what happens in Riyadh and thankfully boxing’s benefiting from that,” Warren added.
“This is a marvellous card headed up by the most fantastic fight. These guys are both big punchers with great jabs. My man Daniel is finding himself; he’s matured not just physically but mentally as well.”
Talks also touched on the potential future clash between Joshua and Tyson Fury, should Fury win his rematch against Usyk in December.
However, Warren concluded emphatically, “That’s not gonna happen, and I’ll tell you why: because Daniel Dubois is gonna knock AJ out.”
