The highly anticipated IBF heavyweight title fight between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois is just around the corner, with both fighters eager to reclaim their positions at the top of boxing’s heavyweight division. Set for Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the iconic Wembley Stadium, this bout has garnered widespread attention not only for its star-studded participants but also for the public backing of UFC star Israel Adesanya.
Adesanya, one of the most prominent names in mixed martial arts, has taken a vested interest in this bout, placing a $10,000 bet on Joshua to secure victory between the 10th and 12th rounds. His prediction adds another layer of intrigue and excitement to what is already shaping up to be a spectacular fight.
The Story Behind the Showdown: Joshua vs. Dubois for the IBF Heavyweight Title
The match between Joshua and Dubois was originally scheduled as a non-title bout. However, the situation changed when Oleksandr Usyk, the former undisputed champion, relinquished his IBF belt in July 2024. Usyk vacated the title due to scheduling conflicts, as his rematch with Tyson Fury was set for December, making it impossible for him to meet the mandatory defense deadline for the IBF.
As a result, the IBF heavyweight title is now up for grabs, raising the stakes significantly for both Joshua and Dubois. Joshua, a former two-time unified heavyweight champion, is looking to reestablish his dominance in the division. Dubois, a younger and hungry contender, is equally determined to make his mark on the world stage.
The added pressure of fighting for a vacant title makes this contest even more compelling, and with Adesanya backing his fellow Nigerian-born Joshua, the stakes have been raised to an even higher level.
Israel Adesanya’s $10,000 Bet: Confidence in Joshua’s Comeback
Israel Adesanya, a UFC middleweight superstar, surprised many when he publicly revealed his prediction for the fight via Instagram. Adesanya not only predicted Joshua’s victory but also shared a screenshot showing his $10,000 stake on Joshua winning between the 10th and 12th rounds. This bold wager reflects Adesanya’s belief in Joshua’s ability to win, despite the fierce competition Dubois will provide.
In his Instagram post, Adesanya invoked the Yoruba deity Ògún, the god of iron and war, to bless Joshua’s fight and help settle the score in the ring. Both athletes share Nigerian heritage and belong to the Yoruba tribe, adding a deeper cultural connection to Adesanya’s support for Joshua.
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Adesanya’s prediction is significant not just because of the monetary stake but because it shows the cross-sport admiration between these two fighters. Adesanya has long been known for his analytical approach to combat sports, making his prediction even more noteworthy.
What’s at Stake for Anthony Joshua?
For Anthony Joshua, this fight is about redemption. After losing his unified heavyweight titles to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and failing to regain them in a rematch, Joshua’s journey back to the top of the heavyweight division has been filled with ups and downs. Winning the IBF heavyweight title against Dubois would be a significant milestone, reestablishing Joshua as one of the sport’s premier heavyweights.
Joshua’s recent fights have shown flashes of his former brilliance, but many have questioned whether he still has the knockout power and mental fortitude that led him to become a two-time heavyweight champion. With Dubois standing in his way, Joshua will need to bring his A-game to claim the vacant IBF title.
The added pressure of Adesanya’s public support may serve as extra motivation for Joshua, who knows that many eyes—both in the boxing world and beyond—will be on him.
Daniel Dubois: The Young Contender Ready to Shock the World
While much of the focus is on Joshua, Daniel Dubois cannot be overlooked. At just 26 years old, Dubois is widely regarded as one of the most promising heavyweight prospects in the sport. Known for his knockout power and aggressive style, Dubois has the tools to give Joshua a real challenge in the ring.
Dubois has bounced back strongly after suffering a loss to Joe Joyce in 2020, capturing the WBA “regular” heavyweight title along the way. He has shown significant improvement in his technique and defense, making him a dangerous opponent for Joshua.
For Dubois, this fight is a chance to prove himself on the world stage and solidify his status as a legitimate contender in the heavyweight division. A win over Joshua would catapult Dubois into the upper echelon of the sport and position him for even bigger fights in the future.
The Build-Up: Press Conference Drama and Predictions
The pre-fight build-up has been intense, with both fighters exchanging verbal jabs during press conferences. Joshua, typically calm and composed, has expressed his determination to reclaim a title and silence the doubters. Dubois, on the other hand, has been vocal about his ambition to dethrone the more experienced Joshua and make a name for himself as the next British heavyweight star.
Adesanya’s bet and prediction have only added fuel to the fire, as fans and pundits debate whether Joshua’s experience or Dubois’ youthful power will prevail. Both fighters appear to be in excellent shape, with their respective camps confident in their preparations.
What’s Next After the Fight?
The outcome of Joshua vs. Dubois will have major implications for the heavyweight division. If Joshua wins, he will once again hold a major heavyweight title and likely set himself up for future blockbuster fights—potentially a rematch with Usyk or a highly anticipated clash with Tyson Fury.
For Dubois, a victory would mark the beginning of a new era in British boxing. He would become a world champion and a serious contender for the biggest names in the sport.
Regardless of the outcome, this fight is set to shake up the heavyweight landscape, and Adesanya’s prediction adds another layer of excitement to an already thrilling contest.
Conclusion: A Fight for the Ages
As fight night approaches, all eyes are on Wembley Stadium, where Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois will battle for the IBF heavyweight title. With UFC star Israel Adesanya placing a $10,000 bet on Joshua and predicting a late-round victory, the anticipation has reached a fever pitch.
Joshua’s quest for redemption and Dubois’ hunger for recognition make this one of the most exciting heavyweight bouts of the year. The fight not only represents a chance for both boxers to claim the IBF title but also to redefine their legacies in the sport. Whatever happens on September 21, 2024, it promises to be a night of high drama and unforgettable moments.
