The British Boxing Board of Control has named Daniel Dubois as the 2025 "Boxer of the Year," recognizing the 27-year-old heavyweight's remarkable accomplishments. After entering 2024 as an underdog, Dubois recorded stunning stoppages over Filip Hrgovic and Anthony Joshua, ending the year as the IBF heavyweight champion. The honors come amid a stacked field of contenders, which included Nick Ball, Anthony Cacace, Jack Catterall, Lauren Price, and Hamzah Sheeraz.
That wasn't the only award connected to Dubois. His trainer, Don Charles, was named “Trainer of the Year,” beating out talented peers like Ben Davison, Joe Gallagher, Shane McGuigan, Jamie Moore, and Paul Stevenson. Charles credited his entire team for supporting Dubois’ comeback and “lighting up the scene,” though he noted their work isn’t finished just yet. For Charles, there’s more history for Dubois to make in the heavyweight ranks.
Watch Usyk vs. Dubois highlights: Watch
Fight of the Year went to the dramatic, see-saw first clash between Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke, which ended in a controversial draw for the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles. The bruising affair overshadowed heavyweight slugfests like Derek Chisora vs. Joe Joyce, Stephen McKenna vs. Joe Laws, and the short-listed Dubois vs. Joshua. Wardley praised Clarke’s grit and fortitude, calling him “one hell of a man, one hell of a fighter,” and credited him for producing a classic that fans won’t soon forget.
Other major recognitions included Mikaela Mayer earning “Overseas Boxer of the Year” after her spirited showing against Natasha Jonas in Liverpool, while the newly instituted “Young Boxer of the Year” went to the electrifying Adam Azim, 22. Azim, who’s become a real head-turner at junior welterweight, thanked the BBBofC and pledged to keep leveling up in 2025: “I want to become a world champion.” It’s evident that British boxing remains as lively as ever, with new stars rising and established names making their mark.
Image Credit: Sky Sports