Oleksandr Usyk overlooked Daniel Dubois in favour of Derek Chisora when discussing the most powerful puncher he's encountered in the ring.
Usyk is set to face Dubois once again on July 19 at Wembley Stadium, following their first bout nearly two years prior, where the Ukrainian secured a ninth-round stoppage. The upcoming fight promises high stakes and tension, especially after their previous clash saw Dubois controversially knock Usyk down with what was ruled a low blow.
Dubois enters this highly anticipated undisputed title fight fresh from a knockout win over Anthony Joshua, while Usyk boasts consecutive victories against Tyson Fury. With an impressive 23-0 record, many have speculated about which of Usyk's opponents has packed the hardest punch.
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In a candid moment on The 3 Knockdown Rule podcast last year, Usyk revealed his pick, saying: "Toughest fight? it was [Fury]. Biggest punch? No. Because Derek Chisora, very tough guy. [One punch landed] on the gloves and I said, 'Oh my God.' Like a baseball bat." Usyk faces enormous pressure heading into July 19, with a potential trilogy bout against Fury hanging in the balance - assuming he emerges victorious, reports All Out Fighting.
This follows Fury's confirmation of his boxing comeback, with the 'Gypsy King' revealing precise details for their third encounter last week. He took to Instagram with a fight poster featuring both himself and the Ukrainian, captioning it: "April 18, 2026 Wembley Stadium. The trilogy! UK. contact @spencerbrownmrgoldstar for tickets."
Usyk swiftly acknowledged the trilogy proposal, expressing his willingness for a third clash with Fury - though his camp emphasised their complete concentration on Dubois this month.
Sergey Lapin, Team Usyk's chief and Ready To Fight CEO, issued this statement: "The idea of a third fight with Tyson Fury has been on the table between our teams ever since their second bout. And I have never had any doubt that, together with Goldstar Promotions, we could turn it into a reality.
"Right now, both Oleksandr Usyk and our team are fully focused on the upcoming fight with Dubois on July 19 and on achieving the historic goal of becoming a three-time undisputed world champion. As you've probably noticed, focus and total commitment are at the core of the champion's and the team's strategy. When this goal - three-time undisputed - is accomplished, and the dust settles, we'll be open for the next round."