Anthony Joshua Set to Face Newly Elevated IBF Champion Daniel Dubois on September 21, 2024

Anthony Joshua Set to Face Newly Elevated IBF Champion Daniel Dubois on September 21, 2024

Introduction

Image of Anthony Joshua from Muscles and fitness

British boxing sensation Anthony Joshua is on the brink of reclaiming his position as a three-time world heavyweight champion. Following a series of career-defining matches, including losses to Oleksandr Usyk and subsequent setbacks, Joshua has found renewed vigor under the guidance of coach Ben Davison. This revitalization was evident in his recent, dominant victories over Otto Wallin and UFC powerhouse Francis Ngannou, both of which ended in decisive stoppages. Now, Joshua stands poised to challenge the newly crowned IBF heavyweight champion, Daniel Dubois, in a highly anticipated bout scheduled for September 21, 2024.

Dubois, who has steadily climbed the ranks, was recently elevated to IBF champion status and is eager to prove himself against the division's elite. While many fans and analysts see this matchup as a crucial step for Joshua towards regaining his world champion status, it is anything but a guaranteed victory. Dubois is known for his ferocious power and determination, traits that have made him a formidable force in the heavyweight division.

Image of Dubois from Eurosport

The stakes are high for both fighters. For Joshua, a win could pave the way for a blockbuster rematch with Oleksandr Usyk, or even a showdown with Tyson Fury, should Usyk fall in their scheduled rematch. But the path to glory is fraught with challenges, as several top contenders are vying for a shot at the heavyweight crown.

One such contender is Martin Bakole, a heavyweight with a reputation for being the division's "danger-man." Bakole's status as a serious threat was solidified when he dismantled the highly-touted American prospect Jared Anderson in a stunning five-round knockout. This victory earned Bakole significant recognition in the U.S. and further cemented his status as a force to be reckoned with in the UK.

Image from skysport

Bakole, who has long been vocal about his desire to face Anthony Joshua, recently reiterated his challenge. He has called for a fight with Joshua, possibly in Africa, in a bout reminiscent of the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. Bakole, confident in his abilities, has boldly predicted a knockout victory over Joshua within four or five rounds, citing past sparring sessions where he claims to have seriously hurt the British star.

Despite the noise from potential challengers, Joshua's focus remains laser-sharp on Dubois. A victory on September 21 would not only secure his third heavyweight title but also set the stage for future mega-fights, potentially rewriting his legacy in the sport.

As the date approaches, the boxing world waits with bated breath to see whether Joshua can once again ascend to the pinnacle of the heavyweight division or if Dubois will establish himself as the new dominant force.

References

1. Ferguson, K. (2024, August 31). **Number 1 Ranked Heavyweight Vows To ‘Punish’ Anthony Joshua And KO Him In 5 Rounds**. *SecondsOut.com*. Retrieved from [SecondsOut](https://www.secondsout.com/news/number-1-ranked-heavyweight-vows-to-punish-anthony-joshua-and-ko-him-in-5-rounds).

2. **Anthony Joshua Bio**. (2024). *Matchroom Boxing*. Retrieved from [Matchroom Boxing](https://www.matchroomboxing.com/boxers/anthony-joshua).

3. **Daniel Dubois: The Rising Star in Heavyweight Boxing**. (2024). *Boxing News 24*. Retrieved from [Boxing News 24](https://www.boxingnews24.com/2024/08/daniel-dubois-the-rising-star-in-heavyweight-boxing).

4. **Martin Bakole Makes His Claim**. (2024, August 29). *BOXXER*. Retrieved from [BOXXER](https://www.boxxer.com/news/martin-bakole-makes-his-claim).

5. **Joshua vs Dubois Set for September 21**. (2024). *Sky Sports Boxing*. Retrieved from [Sky Sports](https://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12040/12734493/joshua-vs-dubois-set-for-september-21).