Oleksandr Usyk 'could retire from boxing' after making huge career decision as Daniel Dubois makes admission

Daniel Dubois pushes Oleksandr Usyk ahead of boxing fight
Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 24/06/2025

- 19:43

Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois will meet again in the ring on 19 July

Daniel Dubois has declared he will bring Oleksandr Usyk's illustrious career to an end when they clash for the undisputed heavyweight championship at Wembley Stadium on 19 July.

The British fighter believes the unbeaten Ukrainian champion is already contemplating retirement ahead of their rematch.


"Probably, possibly yes, I'm going in there to do as much damage as possible," Dubois told Sky Sports.

"These things are happening for a reason and I'm just going to be ready to take the titles away from him."

Oleksandr Usyk

Oleksandr Usyk has been told he could retire soon by Daniel Dubois

PA

Dubois is seeking redemption following his defeat to Usyk in 2023 and views their upcoming bout as potentially the Ukrainian's final fight.

The 27-year-old interprets Usyk's recent separation from long-time promoter Alexander Krassyuk as evidence the champion is preparing to leave the sport. Dubois views this development as a potential weakness he can exploit.

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"But all these things are happening for a reason," Dubois stated, suggesting the timing of these changes indicates vulnerability in his opponent.

The British heavyweight sees fighters who contemplate retirement as particularly susceptible to hungry, younger challengers.

He aims to capitalise on what he perceives as Usyk's wavering commitment to continue competing at the highest level.

Dubois has promised to "kick down the doors" at the summit of the heavyweight division when he faces Usyk next month.

The British fighter is determined to silence his critics with victory over the Ukrainian.

Defeating Usyk would represent an extraordinary accomplishment. The Olympic gold medallist has never lost a professional bout and has established himself as the division's dominant force.

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Daniel Dubois Oleksandr Usyk

Oleksandr Usyk has already beaten Daniel Dubois, albeit in controversial circumstances

PA

Usyk has beaten Anthony Joshua twice and secured two victories over Tyson Fury last year, becoming the undisputed world champion.

He previously held the same status at cruiserweight, cementing his place amongst boxing's elite.

Biaggio Ali Walsh, Muhammad Ali's grandson, has praised Usyk's achievements despite facing taller opponents in the modern heavyweight division.

"My grandfather was 6 foot 3 too. Boxers in the heavyweight division now are 6 foot five to 6 foot nine now. So for him to be doing it at a height disadvantage, I would definitely consider him a legend," Ali Walsh told Sky Sports.

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Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel DuboisOleksandr Usyk beat Daniel Dubois in 2023Getty

He drew parallels between Usyk's political significance to Ukraine and his grandfather's impact.

"With what's going on in Ukraine you've got Usyk stepping up and being that kind of light with his people," Ali Walsh said.

"In his own way he's doing something very similar I think."