No More Hiding – Oleksandr Usyk Admits He Was Afraid of Daniel Dubois!

Oleksandr Usyk has lit the fuse ahead of one of the most anticipated heavyweight rematches in recent memory, declaring that his British rival Daniel Dubois is “a little bit afraid” ahead of their second showdown. The two are set to lock horns once again this Saturday night at Wembley Stadium, a venue known for hosting epic battles under the lights.

Their first encounter ended in controversy and drama, and now, with pride, legacy, and the undisputed heavyweight crown on the line, the boxing world turns its attention to London.

Usyk vs Dubois I: A Fight Still Surrounded by Controversy

Their initial meeting, which took place nearly two years ago, saw Oleksandr Usyk stop Dubois in the ninth round. However, the bout became one of the most talked-about heavyweight contests due to a fifth-round body shot that sent Usyk to the canvas.

Dubois and his camp insisted it was a legitimate knockdown. The referee ruled it a low blow, which gave Usyk crucial recovery time. Ever since, the legitimacy of that moment has been debated by fans, pundits, and the fighters themselves.

This rematch gives Dubois the chance to rewrite the narrative—and Usyk, the opportunity to silence any remaining doubts.

Usyk: “Dubois Is a Little Bit Afraid”

In a recent interview with DAZN, Usyk was asked about his mental preparation and what he sees in his opponent this time around. The Ukrainian superstar didn’t hold back.

“Little bit, yes. Little bit because maybe it is a younger guy. Maybe… I do not know. But Daniel is a little bit afraid,” Usyk told DAZN.

He went on to add a personal twist to his own mindset:

“I am too, but my afraid is different.”

That quote alone has sent fans into a frenzy. While Usyk admits to his own fear, he claims his version is motivational—a fire that fuels his performance rather than paralyzing him. It’s a classic glimpse into Usyk’s psychological warfare, a reminder that he’s not just a technician in the ring, but a master at mental chess.

Dubois’ Reputation on the Line

At just 27 years old, Daniel Dubois has long been touted as one of Britain’s most promising heavyweights. But his reputation has taken a hit over the years, particularly after his loss to Joe Joyce in 2020, where he was accused by critics of “quitting” after suffering a fractured orbital bone.

Now, with another high-stakes fight approaching, the question remains: can Dubois stand tall in deep waters, or will he falter under pressure again?

This fight could define his entire career. A win would propel him back into the elite circle of heavyweight contenders. A loss—especially a one-sided one—might permanently cement him as a nearly-man in the division.

Usyk’s Perspective on His Rivals—and Himself

In his usual reflective and philosophical style, Usyk spoke more broadly about fear, competition, and respect. When asked about his own vulnerabilities, the 38-year-old surprised many by saying:

“My weakness? I love people. I love my opponents. Only one of my opponents I do not love. It’s Marco Huck. He is a bad guy because this man said bad words about my mother.”

It’s a rare admission of personal disdain in a sport where respect is often feigned. Still, Usyk made sure to praise his British foes:

Joe Joyce: “A great man.”

Tony Bellew: “My greatest test.”

Anthony Joshua: “A true warrior.”

His words about Tony Bellew, in particular, struck a chord:

“He gave me opportunity after the fight to go up in the UK.”

This generosity, humility, and reverence for his past opponents highlight Usyk’s rare combination of ferocity and grace—traits that have made him a fan favorite across continents.

What’s at Stake at Wembley

The undisputed heavyweight crown may not technically be on the line due to sanctioning body politics, but make no mistake—this fight is about supremacy.

For Usyk, it’s a continuation of a legacy that already includes victories over:

Tony Bellew

Anthony Joshua (twice)

Tyson Fury (via split decision in 2024)

And of course, the controversial Daniel Dubois I

With back-to-back undisputed reigns at cruiserweight and heavyweight, Usyk aims to become the only man to unify the division a third time.

“Because Jesus gives me opportunity. I think my goal now is to become three-time undisputed,” Usyk said.
“I love boxing. I love training. I love hard training. It is in my life.”

For Dubois, this is redemption. He needs to prove that the first fight wasn’t a fluke and that he belongs at the top tier of the sport. Fighting in front of a home crowd in Wembley adds pressure—but also belief.

Is Retirement Near for Usyk?

Despite his age—38 years old—Oleksandr Usyk has shown no signs of slowing down. While many experts assumed his fight with Tyson Fury would be his swan song, Usyk has made it clear he’s not done yet.

He remains motivated by his faith, his love for the sport, and a desire to inspire a generation of Ukrainian athletes.

Still, the whispers of retirement persist. Should he dominate Dubois again, what more would he have to prove?

Fight Night Predictions and the Mood in Camp

In boxing circles, Usyk remains the clear favorite. His footwork, ring IQ, and timing are levels above most heavyweights. But fans and analysts alike know that heavyweight boxing can turn in an instant, especially with someone as powerful as Daniel Dubois.

“One clean shot to the body again—legitimate this time—and we might have a new king,” said former WBO champ Johnny Nelson.

Dubois’ team has reportedly focused heavily on body work and countering southpaws, while Usyk’s camp remains cool and confident, emphasizing movement, endurance, and strategy.

British Boxing Fans Divided

The British boxing public is split down the middle. Many support Dubois out of national pride and a belief in his raw power. Others fear that he’s mentally vulnerable and not yet on Usyk’s level.

Regardless of allegiance, fans are united in one thing: this is a must-watch event.

With Wembley Stadium set to welcome over 80,000 fans under the lights, and millions more watching globally, the world will be watching every jab, feint, and moment of hesitation.

Final Thoughts: Will Dubois Redeem Himself or Will Usyk Cement His Legacy?

Oleksandr Usyk has made it clear—he sees Daniel Dubois as a man with fear in his heart, and he’s ready to exploit it. But Dubois has his own score to settle and a hometown crowd behind him.

On Saturday night, we’ll find out who’s bluffing, who’s broken, and who is truly built for greatness.

For Usyk, it’s about immortality.
For Dubois, it’s about survival—and rebirth.

The question remains: Is Daniel Dubois afraid? Or is he simply preparing for the fight of his life?