Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois went head-to-head on the banks of the Thames for the first time in a week ahead of their IBF heavyweight world title fight.
Riyadh Season: Joshua vs Dubois live at Wembley Stadium this Saturday. Sky Sports Box Office.
On Monday, Joshua walked straight up to Dubois, frowning under the sunlight, and glared at his young rival without blinking.
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Joshua and Dubois have given their thoughts on the fight earlier this week ahead of Saturday’s huge showdown at Wembley.
Both men have deservedly earned reputations as fearsome punchers. But Dubois is looking for more in this fight. He doesn’t just want to win by knockout. He wants to inflict something on his opponent, and there’s nothing worse for a boxer than that. He wants to make Joshua quit.
“I’ve got to stop him, I’ve got to break him. That’s the mindset I have going into this. I’ve got to stop him, I’ve got to break him,” DuBois said. Sky Sports.
“I believe I can do it.”
The abandonment was a criticism hurled at DuBois after his loss to Joe Joyce. He has since fought to dispel criticism of his character.
The sweetest victory for him would be to force that kind of ending at the most high-profile event in boxing’s career. For DuBois, it would be a kind of brutal redemption.
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Let’s take a look at DuBois’ journey ahead of his fight with Joshua.
“I’m changing it at this stage in my career. I’ve had my ups and downs, and I’m just changing it,” DuBois said.
“Enjoy the moment, say everything, make every statement. I’m in good shape right now and ready to fight.”
Joshua and DuBois had to break up early in their promotion when they nearly got into an argument during a joint interview.
There was still a simmering sense of animosity between the two men. “I looked into his eyes and, I don’t know, I’m so used to it now. It’s part of the game,” DuBois said.
He is adamant that Joshua’s team is underestimating him. “Of course they are. He’s going to get the biggest shock of his life,” Dubois said.
Joshua fights Dubois at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
“Seize the moment. Everything will become real. Stop thinking, stop talking.”
But he’s happy to be seen as the underdog. “I still have that mentality, I still do. Everybody wants to see the underdog come out on top,” he said.
“I’m the underdog, but I love playing that role. Please make this another memorable night.”
The heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois will be broadcast live on Saturday, September 21. Sky Sports Box Office. Book your Joshua v Dubois match now!
