WBO President Comments on Approval of Usyk vs. Dubois Rematch

World Boxing Organization (WBO) President Gustavo Olivieri has commented on the announcement of the heavyweight rematch between WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBO champion Oleksandr Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs) and IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois (22-2, 21 KOs).

“After carefully reviewing the arguments presented by all involved parties regarding the WBO mandatory title defense, the organization concluded that it is in the best interests of boxing — and more importantly, of the boxers themselves — to allow the unification bout to proceed before the mandatory defense.

This will once again crown an undisputed champion in the division, which will positively impact the sport’s growth and enhance the fighters' legacies. The status of mandatory challenger Joseph Parker remains unchanged — he will be next in line following the unification bout,” Olivieri emphasized.

The Usyk vs. Dubois rematch is scheduled for July 19 at Wembley Stadium in London, United Kingdom. At stake will be the title of undisputed heavyweight world champion (over 90.7 kg).

Their first encounter took place in August 2023, where Usyk defeated Dubois by ninth-round knockout. Full fight statistics from that bout are available via the link.

In December, Oleksandr Usyk also defeated Tyson Fury by unanimous decision in their rematch. In February, Daniel Dubois was set to defend his title against Joseph Parker, but withdrew due to illness.