Heavyweight Daniel Dubois and his team have submitted a formal appeal to the WBA, questioning the recent outcome of his bout against Oleksandr Usyk. As per Sky Sports, the aim is to classify the match as a no-contest and to press for an immediate rematch.
In the disputed heavyweight unification fight last month, Dubois seemed to have the upper hand when he landed a powerful punch to Usyk’s midsection during the fifth round. While it looked like a game-changing moment, referee Luis Pabon deemed it a low blow. This decision allowed Usyk nearly four minutes to recover, which eventually led to him defeating a visibly drained Dubois in the ninth round, retaining his collection of titles.
The controversial punch, landing on August 26th, has been a topic of intense debate. Dubois, his promoter Frank Warren, and trainer Don Charles are all unwavering in their stance that the punch was squarely within the rules, which, in their eyes, should crown Dubois the new champion.
With Warren leading the charge for a rematch, the team’s formal objection marks their commitment to overturning the fight’s outcome.
The WBA, in a concise statement, acknowledged receiving the appeal and reassured that they will conduct a thorough review in alignment with their regulations. Any subsequent decisions will strictly adhere to WBA guidelines and will be disclosed promptly. The boxing community now waits with bated breath for the outcome of this appeal.
Image Credit: Sky Sports