“A 180-Degree Turn”: Daniel Dubois Explains Unexpected Return to Don Charles

Former Heavyweight world champion Daniel Dubois has provided insight into his decision to reunite with trainer Don Charles after a brief and unsuccessful stint with Tony Sims.

Following his knockout loss to Oleksandr Usyk in July 2025, Dubois initially sought a fresh start to rebuild his career. However, after failing to “gel” with Sims, the 28-year-old realized that his greatest career milestones—including dominant wins over Anthony Joshua, Filip Hrgovic, and Jarrell Miller—were achieved under Charles' guidance.

– We just sat down, had a meeting, consulted with the family, and thought — since the greatest success was achieved specifically with him, we decided to make this 180-degree turn. I had the best nights with him, and I feel that he knows me, knows me as a fighter and as a person. So it makes sense to come back. We had a little break, and now I'm ready to get back to business.

– Daniel, may I ask why you parted ways in the first place?

– I think everyone just needed to go away and think about it. It wasn't even some kind of deep reflection; perhaps it was a quick, rash decision, I don't know. But what I can say is: I'm glad we're back together, I'm glad I'll be working with him again. He is the right trainer for me. I still have a lot of hidden strength that I’m going to pull out of myself to rise to the top again and get my belt back. That’s what we’re doing now.

– You were with trainer Tony Sims. He said that you two simply didn't click. Does that sound like the truth?

– Yes, you could say that. I feel that for me, given my character, Don will be the right choice. Don is the man, and I'm glad we made this decision now. It's time to move forward with him and return to the glory days. That’s what I really want — to return to the glory days,” said Dubois.

Daniel Dubois (22-3, 21 KOs) last entered the ring in July 2025, when he lost to Oleksandr Usyk by knockout in the fifth round of their rematch.