Daniel Dubois Sends a Warning to Canelo Alvarez Ahead of Usyk Clash “He’s Going to Lose His Money”
With the world watching and history on the line, Daniel Dubois is not just coming for Oleksandr Usyk he’s also calling out Canelo Álvarez.
The Mexican superstar and multiweight world champion reportedly placed a hefty $500,000 bet on Usyk to defeat Dubois at Wembley Stadium on July 19th in their fight for the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world. But Dubois isn’t flinching.
“It don’t mean nothing to me,” Dubois said at Thursday’s press conference, brushing off Canelo’s wager. “It don’t mean shit to me. He’s going to lose his money. From now on, I’m just focused.”
Dubois, just 27 years old and the reigning IBF heavyweight champion, showed up dressed in a no-nonsense tracksuit and black cap, embodying the mindset of a man with one mission: to shock the world.
“I’m going to write my own script now,” he declared. “I’ve prepared right. I’m on a different level now. I’m ready to go through whatever I need to on Saturday and take them belts. I’m chasing glory and I’m chasing greatness. This is history making and I’m going to do a real demolition job. I’m hungry and ready for it.”
The British heavyweight made no effort to hide his confidence or his intention to dethrone Usyk, who holds the WBA, WBC and WBO titles. Dubois is 11 years younger than the Ukrainian and sees this as a changing of the guard moment.
“It’s facts. I’m a young lion,” he said. “I’ve got to take over, be the man, and execute him.”
Usyk, ever the calm presence, responded with respect and subtle confidence.
“Listen, I respect this young guy,” he said. “He’s motivated, but I am too. I’m not an old guy. Thirty eight is not old. We will see on Saturday. It’s God’s will.”
More than just another title defense, this fight holds deep personal meaning for Usyk. Representing his war torn country, Ukraine, he acknowledged that every fight now carries a greater weight.
“It’s very important for me and my team but now it’s important for my country and for the soldiers,” he said. “Because it is motivation for my people.”
When asked if he felt shaken by Dubois’ sudden rise in confidence following their previous encounter in August 2023, Usyk looked momentarily confused by the word “rattled” but responded with a smile: “No, I not feel.”
The pre fight tension extended beyond the fighters. Don Charles, Dubois’ trainer, who previously questioned Usyk’s faith during an April press conference, was more subdued this time.
“All the talking has been done,” he said. “It’s now time for action. Please tune in, those at home, and those in attendance, get behind Daniel Dubois. Let’s make history together. Come on. Let’s go.”
Usyk, however, had a final cryptic note for Charles:
“Don’t push the horses,” he said.
“Pardon me?” Charles replied.
“I need a translator.”
Longtime team member Sergey Lapin stepped in, repeating the exact same line:
“Don’t push the horses.”
Even Frank Warren couldn't help but laugh. “I think he’s trying to gee you up,” he said.
But when asked if he believes he’ll win by stoppage, Usyk was more direct:
“Yeah, I believe this,” he said quietly.
Dubois, meanwhile, remained focused and fired up.
“I’m looking forward to the fight. I’m up for it. I feel I’m at the peak of my powers, and it’s going to be a great performance.”
The face off was intense but brief. Usyk stood his ground, unblinking, while Dubois eventually turned to rally his fans with a chant of “Dubois Dubois” before returning for a few more seconds of silence.
As Dubois exited, Usyk stood alone, silently raising three fingers on both hands, symbolizing his goal of becoming undisputed world champion for the third time in his career, having previously unified titles at both cruiserweight and heavyweight.
For all the theatrics, mind games and betting slips, only one thing will matter on Saturday night what happens when the bell rings.
