Top trainer and boxing expert Adam Booth believes that Daniel Dubois may have received the “wake-up call” he needed to stand a real chance against Anthony Joshua in their upcoming IBF world heavyweight title fight.

Dubois is set to clash with Joshua on September 21 at Wembley Stadium, with the bout being broadcast live on Sky Sports Box Office. The fight has gained significant attention, especially after Dubois was upgraded to full world champion status following Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to vacate the title. Dubois earned his spot by winning the IBF Interim title after defeating Croatia’s Filip Hrgovic in June.

Booth, known for his work with former heavyweight champion David Haye, suggests that Dubois’ recent bout against Hrgovic, where he faced some difficulty, might have been a crucial learning experience. “The fact that Hrgovic found the right hand so many times could be the wake-up call for Daniel that he needed to make that adjustment,” Booth told Sky Sports. He added, “You’d have to be a fool not to realise that you need to take Anthony Joshua’s right hand away from him.”

Both Joshua and Dubois share a common ground beyond their power punches—they are both working with new trainers. Joshua has teamed up with Ben Davison, while Dubois is under the guidance of Don Charles. This change in their training setups introduces an element of unpredictability to the fight.

Booth observed that while Joshua has an established track record at the highest level, the addition of a new coach might bring slight changes to his approach. On the other hand, Booth feels that Dubois is on the rise, noting that his last two performances against Jarrell Miller and Hrgovic have likely made him a much more formidable opponent.

“In heavyweight boxing, especially in a big rivalry and a massive stadium, sometimes it’s the one who can keep their head when the firefight starts or when the dangerous shots are being thrown that will come out on top,” Booth explained. He praised Joshua for proving that he can keep his composure even after making mistakes, something Dubois still needs to demonstrate at this level.

As the fight draws closer, the anticipation builds, with many wondering if Dubois’ recent experiences and adjustments will be enough to dethrone Joshua and solidify his status as a world champion.

Posted By Sky Sports: https://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12040/13185600/daniel-dubois-could-have-had-the-wake-up-call-he-needed-to-beat-anthony-joshua-says-adam-booth