Ex‑Klitschko Manager on Usyk–Dubois: “Smells Like an Upset”

Former manager of ex‑heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, Bernd Bönte, shared what he expects to happen in the ring when unified WBA, WBC, WBO & IBO heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (23‑0, 14 KOs) meets IBF title‑holder Daniel Dubois (22‑2, 21 KOs).

“Usyk will try to be extremely cautious right from the start, constantly on the move. And, of course, he’ll be stronger in the second half of the fight. He’s shown that time and again—he always finds another gear late. He outclasses opponents because he’s in fantastic shape and trains like a madman.

I think this bout will be much tougher for Usyk than the first one. My gut tells me it smells like an upset. I wouldn’t bet on Dubois right now, but I don’t have the usual feeling that everything is against him. Betting against Usyk is never wise, yet I believe this fight will be far harder for him than previous ones.

Don’t forget: Tyson Fury lost a lot in the Wilder fights. And Dubois is much younger than Anthony Joshua or Fury—he’s in his prime now. He’ll be coming forward. The question is: can you stop him? Only with speed, movement, and controlling the bout with the jab?

Whether Usyk can control the fight on every level—that’s the big question. I don’t know, but I have the feeling something’s brewing,” Bönte said.

The rematch between Usyk and Dubois takes place on 19 July at Wembley Stadium. Detailed RTFight statistics on the bout are available at the link.

Photo: Richard Pelham/Getty Images