First things First
Oleksandr Usyk will be defending his titles tonight against Daniel Dubois, at Wroclaw, Poland; the fight is scheduled for 12-rounds and can be viewed via ESPN+ (USA) and TNT Sports Box Office (UK).
Usyk has been inactive for over a year now, with his last fight being against Anthony Joshua for a defence of his titles (WBA, IBF and WBO), which he earned in his previous victory against Joshua.
Dubois’ last outing was against Kevin Lerena, scoring a TKO victory in the third, but not without suffering multiple knockdowns in the first round.
Usyk has a KO percentage of 65%, and his only TKO/KO as a heavyweight was his debut at the weight against Chazz Witherspoon.
Usyk had previously dominated the cruiserweight division, becoming indisputed champion and also won the Ali trophy from the World Boxing Super Series.
Dubois has a KO percentage of 95% in 19 victories, with his only loss being to Joe joyce, who Usyk had defeated in the WSB.
The youth advantage strongly favours Dubois, who is 11 years younger than his opponent. Usyk’s experience both as an amateur and a pro is a key factor here.
The Outcome
Will Dubois try to take it to Usyk? I suspect that the first half is where Dubois will be most dangerous. With that being said; I expect Usyk will be able to weather the storm.
Finally, I am picking a victory for Oleksandr Usyk, over 8-rounds, this includes either a TKO/KO or decision win. Usyk is more talented, far more skilled and experienced, and will know how to deal with the size difference.
If Dubois can be confident in his aggression, and follow the blueprint of the 9th-round in the Joshua vs Usyk fight, then that will increase his chances.
The southpaw stance will be the biggest obstacle for Dubois, followed by Usyk’s footwork and headmovement.
Please refer to the following link for a tweet I had submitted earlier in the week, containing my prediction: twitter prediction.
