WBC Bridgerweight World Champion Lawrence Okolie believes Anthony Joshua’s efficiency will largely decide the result of his subsequent month’s IBF heavyweight title conflict with Daniel Dubois.
In keeping with the Nigerian-born British pugilis, who has sparred with each fighters, Joshua’s consistency can be key to profitable the bout.
Joshua will battle Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title on September 21 at Wembley Stadium in a probably explosive showdown that’s occasioned by Oleksandr Usyk vacating the title following his victories over Joshua and Dubois resulting from a compulsory rematch with Tyson Fury.
Dubois, who not too long ago claimed the title by defeating Filip Hrgovic, will defend his belt towards Joshua in what can be a high-stakes showdown.
In his evaluation, Okolie praised each fighters’ talents however emphasised that Joshua’s consistency might be the deciding issue.
“Dan, I’ve a lot respect for him. We’ve skilled collectively, and from an goal standpoint, he’s somebody you possibly can’t underestimate. He’s bought severe energy, grit, and willpower.
“But when Joshua can keep one factor, consistency, utilizing his lengthy, straight punches successfully, he ought to come out on prime,” Okolie mentioned.
Okolie highlighted two vital moments in Dubois’ profession: his stoppage loss to Joe Joyce and his tumultuous victory over Kevin Lerena.
In opposition to Lerena, Dubois was knocked down 3 times within the opening spherical earlier than finally profitable, whereas he suffered a watch socket harm that led to him taking a knee within the Joyce bout.
“We’ve seen it occur a couple of instances with Dan. Within the Joe Joyce battle and the Kevin Lerena battle, there have been moments the place you could possibly spot a weak point in his armor. Regardless of all his power and energy, should you keep constant, I believe you will get the job finished. And AJ, out of all of the heavyweights, is understood for his consistency. That’s why I’m leaning in the direction of him,” Okolie added.
The upcoming battle is anticipated to attract huge consideration, with Saudi Arabia’s Normal Leisure Authority in search of to extend the capability at Wembley Stadium resulting from excessive ticket demand.
The battle, a part of Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh season, goals to set a file for the most important boxing attendance at Wembley, surpassing the earlier file of 94,000 set throughout Tyson Fury’s 2022 victory over Dillian Whyte.
