Fesechko on Dubois vs. Usyk Fight: "A Pure Blow Below the Belt"

In an exclusive interview with vRINGe, Ukrainian judge Viktor Fesechko offered his seasoned perspective on the contentious moment from the bout between Daniel Dubois (20-2, 19 KOs) and the reigning WBO, WBA, IBO, and IBF heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs), labeling a specific hit as a clear low blow.

"There was a punch below the belt. A pure blow to the groin. And he 'put his back into it'," Fesechko noted, underscoring the deliberate nature of the strike. The referee's response to the incident was by the book, according to Fesechko. "The referee acted correctly. He allowed time for recovery. The rules provide up to five minutes for recuperation. Then, the referee must ascertain whether the impacted fighter can continue or not."

Fesechko elaborated that such incidents could potentially lead to disqualification. "If there's a blow below the belt after which the opponent cannot continue, it could indeed result in disqualification," he explained.

The clash between Daniel Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk, which took place last August, ended with the Ukrainian securing a knockout victory in the ninth round. This fight will be remembered, in part, for the controversial moment when the British fighter landed a low blow on Usyk.