IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois has solidified his place among the best in the heavyweight division, and now his trainer, Don Charles, is calling out former undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. Earlier this month, Dubois shocked the boxing world by knocking down Anthony Joshua four times before securing a stunning fifth-round knockout victory in their high-stakes bout in London.

Despite entering as the underdog, Dubois made Joshua look like an outmatched amateur, silencing critics and marking a career-defining moment. Now, riding high off his win, Dubois’ camp has set its sights on avenging his controversial loss to Usyk. Trainer Don Charles didn’t mince words, labeling the Ukrainian champion a ‘fake’ and an ‘actor,’ while publicly challenging him to a rematch.

The two last squared off in August last year at the Wrocław Stadium in Poland, a fight that remains steeped in controversy. Dubois knocked Usyk down with a punch that was ruled a low blow, allowing the champion several minutes to recover. Usyk ultimately retained his IBF, WBO, and WBA titles with a ninth-round knockout, but the bout sparked debate and headlines for months.

Despite appeals from Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren, the decision by the referee was upheld, and ‘DDD’ had to accept another red notch in his record. However, with his newfound success, a rematch could be possible if Usyk wins his upcoming December 21st bout against Tyson Fury.

Regardless, Charles said in an interview with talkSport, “Usyk is fake. Exceptional boxer. But he’s a fake and a liar and a cheat.” He later added, “The cheating and the acting he did when Daniel dropped him, he should win an Oscar for that acting… I dare him, Usyk, to get [back] in the ring with Dubois.” Meanwhile, even Dubois’ promoter seems to be eyeing the same fight.

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois 2

Following the Joshua fight, Dubois managed to keep his IBF heavyweight title, which was possible in the first place because Usyk relinquished it to fight Tyson Fury later this year. Nonetheless, Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren, believes his client is ready for a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.

It’s good news for fight fans because if Usyk wins against Fury, there could be another undisputed matchup and Dubois will have a shot at furthering his newfound success. Speaking to BBC 5 Live, Warren said, “The fight I would like to see him in now is Usyk again,” adding that Dubois is a “different guy altogether” since their last encounter. 

“Dubois lost his composure after the incident,” Warren said but insists his fighter has matured since then. Warren is confident Dubois “has all the tools” to dominate the division, including taking on Usyk once more.

That being said, the heavyweight division seems to be back in action as it once was in the golden era of boxing—The best fighting the best constantly. However, it’s yet to be seen whether this callout turns into a reality or not. Would you like to see a rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois?