02 June 2024 , 09:53
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Daniel Dubois has revealed he hopes to take on Anthony Joshua in an all-British heavyweight bout after his stunning stoppage victory over Filip Hrgovic.
Dubois, 26, made a miserable start to the fourth fight in the 5 v 5 tournament in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday night with Hrgovic firmly leading the first couple of rounds. However, Dubois grew into the fight and sensed his opportunity in the seventh round as blood poured from the face of Hrgovic.
He took that chance with both hands and landed some punishing blows to Hrgovic who was stopped by referee John Latham as he walked into the neutral corner and called the doctor. After a brief exam, the fight was called off and Dubois was crowned IBF interim world heavyweight title champion.
Dubois has now set up a potential fight against Joshua later this year. Speaking about the proposed bout, he said: "I hope the next opponent would be AJ so bring it on. This is my era and this is my time."
"I have full respect for the guy, to come through that was a learning experience," he added. "I’m glad I got the belt and on to the next. I was a bit cold to start off with, I had the corner advice, Frank Warren and my dad.
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"I ate some shots but it was only to wake me up. The first few shots stung but they woke me up. I’m so proud of myself. It is all a learning experience. We are back on top. It has felt like a rollercoaster."
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Daniel Dubois during his win over Filip Hrgovic (Getty Images)Promoter Frank Warren said that fight could be at Wembley, London in September. The defeat was a first professional loss for Croatia's Hrgovic, while Dubois now has 21 victories and two losses to his name, including one defeat against undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Uysk.
Deontay Wilder topped the bill in Riyadh as he took on Zhilei Zhang but the Bronze Bomber looked a shadow of his former self, as he had done during his defeat against Joseph Parker last time out. Zhang ended up victorious following a stunning fifth round stoppage victory over Wilder.
"I lost to (Joseph) Parker, it was a fair loss. He was the better man that night. I've learned since then. As long as the bell doesn't ring, stay focused," said Zhang.
"I have to pretend Wilder didn't have a right hand and I successfully took it away. Road to the championship."