Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton commented on the upcoming fight between former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs) and IBF heavyweight belt holder Daniel DuBois (21-2, 20 KOs).
“Many people are convinced that this fight can end after one powerful punch, and it is true. But this opinion doesn't take into account the determination and pride of both fighters. There is a lot at stake for both guys. Their previous performances don't really have much bearing on an event like this and a fight of this magnitude.”
“Whoever wins will have to nail his opponent to the canvas. Many people doubted Dubois' courage when he fought Joe Joyce. I think this criticism was unfounded. In the following fights, Dubois showed that he has a huge heart. It will be an incredible fight. I expect a war, but I think AJ has a slight advantage.”
The Dubois-Joshua fight will take place on September 21. The arena for the event will be Wembley Stadium in London. Du Bois will defend the IBF heavyweight world title, which he received after Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk relinquished the belt.
Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury will also be at the ringside during the fight between Dubois and Joshua.
The fight will be the headliner of the big boxing night. The undercard will feature such fights as Tyler Denny - Hamza Shiraz, Anthony Kakache - Josh Warrington, Liam Smith - Josh Kelly, Joshua Boatsy - Willie Hutchinson and Mark Chamberlain - Josh Padley.
Dubois finished his fight with Filip Hrgovic in the eighth round. The fight took place as part of the 5 on 5 event in Riyadh. The British heavyweight won the title of IBF interim champion in the fight with the Croatian.
In his last fight, Joshua defeated former UFC world champion Francis Ngannou. After the fight, Eddie Hearn called Anthony the world's No. 1 heavyweight boxer. Joshua himself spoke about his desire to hold his next fight in June, but he was offered to postpone the fight until September.
