Daniel Dubois’ Coach Labels Oleksandr Usyk a ‘Cheat’ Over Controversial Punch

Coach Don Charles for Daniel Dubois has publicly accused Oleksandr Usyk of being a “cheat” and a “conman” following a disputed punch that was ruled a low blow during their first fight in August 2023.

The two heavyweight boxers are set to face each other again in a highly anticipated rematch for the undisputed title at Wembley Stadium on July 19. Both fighters have made significant strides since their last encounter, with Usyk defeating Tyson Fury twice to cement his status among the best of his era, while Dubois secured a decisive victory over Anthony Joshua in just five rounds at the national stadium last September.

Despite their recent successes, the focus remains on the contentious illegal punch from their initial fight, with Dubois’ camp claiming he was robbed of a rightful victory during their bout in Poland two years ago. Although Dubois was thoroughly outmatched before landing the shot in the fifth round that left Usyk writhing in pain, the referee deemed it a low blow.

The referee’s decision allowed Usyk several minutes to recover, despite protests from Dubois’ corner. When the fight resumed, Usyk regained control and ultimately won, with Dubois taking a knee in the ninth round.

While Dubois is typically reserved, his coach, Don Charles, expressed strong opinions at a recent press conference, especially after Usyk displayed photos showing various low punches during their fight and requested Dubois to sign them.

“Usyk, as a boxing coach, I respect your accomplishments as a fighter greatly,” stated Charles, who has previously coached notable boxers such as Joshua and Derek Chisora. “However, it’s disappointing that you would use those kinds of photos. Why don’t you show the actual shot that had you shaken? Your acting that night deserves an Oscar for the performance. You deceived the referee, the audience, and the boxing community. You’ve claimed to be a God-fearing man, but I question what you uphold as your faith.”

Usyk, a devout Christian, chose not to engage in a verbal exchange and reminded Charles that he only needed a light jab to knock Dubois down. Many observers questioned Dubois’ resilience, especially after he had previously taken a knee during a loss against Joe Joyce in 2022. However, he has evolved as a fighter since then, having faced challenging bouts against Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic that led to him earning the IBF title previously held by Usyk.

Dubois, who had to withdraw from a scheduled fight against Joseph Parker in February due to illness, stated he aims to avoid falling into any “psychological warfare” with Usyk, while still maintaining that the punch was legal. “I believe he won’t be able to withstand the intensity and pressure that I will bring. I’ll step up and secure victory,” Dubois declared. “That punch was like a divine strike. They might have benefitted from the crowd in Poland, but my team must make their voices heard. I’m compensating them to do just that. It’s not pure hatred; it’s strategic and intelligent. We’re fighting to rectify the past and address the controversy.”

There are indications that Usyk might consider retirement after his victories over Fury, having achieved significant accolades including an Olympic gold medal and undisputed titles in multiple weight classes. Although he will be 38 years old, Usyk intends to continue fighting for at least two more bouts and resumed training shortly after his December victory over Fury.

“After the fight, I traveled to Spain and immediately felt the urge to return to training. More than two weeks of rest isn’t in me; it’s not feasible,” Usyk shared. “Boxing is my life. People suggest I stop, but why would I?”