Heavyweight permutations – what next after Dubois’ win?

Daniel Dubois Shakes Up Heavyweight Division After Victory Over Anthony Joshua

Daniel Dubois’ surprising win against Anthony Joshua has not only disrupted his rival’s future fight plans but has also shaken up the entire heavyweight division.

What Fights Are Confirmed?

Currently, the only confirmed world title fight is Usyk-Fury 2 set to take place in Saudi Arabia on December 21. This fight is pivotal to the future of the heavyweight division.

Victory for Tyson Fury could trigger a third fight between him and Oleksandr Usyk. Alternatively, Usyk, with a win, could solidify his place as the best heavyweight of this era. However, no other major heavyweights, such as Joseph Parker, Dubois, or Joshua, have confirmed future fights and are likely waiting for the outcome of Usyk-Fury 2.

What’s Next for Dubois?

Daniel Dubois, at 27 years old, plans to take the rest of the year off after four fights in 13 months. A rematch with Joshua is a possibility, though there is no automatic rematch clause.

Dubois’ preferred fight would be a rematch against Usyk after his dramatic defeat in Poland last year. Regardless of the outcome of Usyk-Fury 2, promoter Frank Warren has indicated a willingness to match Dubois with Usyk. Other potential opponents for Dubois include Joseph Parker or even the Usyk-Fury 2 winner.

• Prediction: If Usyk loses, a Dubois vs. Usyk fight could happen. If Fury wins, Dubois vs. Joshua 2 may be more likely.

Where Does Joshua Stand?

Joshua is at a crossroads in his career but remains a major draw, having sold out Wembley alongside Dubois with over 95,000 attendees. Should Fury lose in Usyk-Fury 2, a long-anticipated Joshua vs. Fury fight could finally happen.

Although Joshua’s immediate opponent is unclear, it’s known that he has one fight left on his Riyadh Season deal, meaning he will fight again regardless of the outcome of Usyk-Fury 2. His next opponent could be a big name or a comeback fighter, depending on the result of the December bout.

The End of a Golden Era?

As the heavyweight landscape shifts, it’s clear a new era is on the horizon. Dubois, the only top-ranked heavyweight in his 20s, represents the future of the division. In contrast, Fury (36), Wilder (38), Joshua (34), and Usyk (37) are veterans nearing the end of their careers. Other contenders like Zhilei Zhang (41) and Joseph Parker (32) add to the aging roster.

While Dubois has proven himself a worthy contender, he will need new opponents beyond Joshua, Usyk, and Fury if he is to continue headlining stadium fights and building his legacy.