Boxer Anthony Joshua has been defeated by IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois in their all-British heavyweight title fight at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.
The fight began with Dubois taking control early in front of 96,000 spectators. In the first round, he backed Joshua onto the ropes and dropped him with a powerful overhand right. Joshua, visibly shaken, managed to beat the referee’s count.
Dubois continued his assault in the second and third rounds and Joshua struggled to contain him.
Another knockdown came in the third, leaving Joshua looking weary and out of answers.
By the fourth round, Dubois had complete control as Joshua’s movements grew sluggish and his punches lacked their usual power. A decisive right hand in the fifth round sent Joshua face-down on the canvas.
Despite Joshua’s attempt to rise, the referee called an end to the fight, sealing Dubois’ victory and Joshua’s shocking defeat.
This marks Joshua’s second knockout loss in his career.
Dubois described his victory as a “redemption story” for him.
“Thank you very much. It’s been a long journey. I’m grateful to be in this position. I’m a gladiator, you know? I’m just a warrior to the bitter end. I’m ready to go. I want to reach the top level of this game and fulfil my potential. God bless you all.
“Behind the scenes, my dad, my family, and my strong team helped me through this. It’s been a roller-coaster ride, and now, it’s my time. This is my redemption story. I won’t stop until I reach my full potential,” he said.
Asked what went wrong, Joshua said, “The opponent. Credit to him and his team. We took a gamble for success, but we came up short. You know I’m frustrated, but I’m going to stay professional and give respect to my opponent.
“Before I came here, I kept telling myself I’m a fighter for life. We rolled the dice, but we came up short. We’ll keep rolling the dice.
“I had a sharp, fast opponent, but I also made a lot of mistakes. That’s the game. As frustrated as I am, it is what it is.”
