I was scrolling through my sports feeds yesterday when I spotted something that made me stop mid-coffee sip. Lennox Lewis—yeah, THAT Lennox Lewis—just dropped a bombshell about who he thinks can actually beat the seemingly untouchable Oleksandr Usyk. And his answer surprised the hell out of me.
Listen. We all know Usyk's record is ridiculous. The man is 23-0 with undisputed titles in TWO weight classes. He's beaten Anthony Joshua twice. He's beaten Tyson Fury twice. He's basically been collecting scalps like my nephew collects those stupid Pokemon cards.
That Controversial First Fight Nobody Can Shut Up About
Back in 2023, Usyk stopped Daniel Dubois, but let's not pretend that fight wasn't dripping with controversy. Remember that "low blow" in round five? Dubois dropped Usyk with what the ref called a shot below teh belt, but Dubois has maintained forever that it was completely legal.
I watched that moment about 47 times in slow motion. Still can't decide.
Anyway, Dubois eventually lost in nine rounds. But here's where things get interesting...
The Comeback Kid With Dynamite Hands
Since that loss, Dubois has rebuilt himself like a man possessed. Won the IBF title. And then—in what might be the most satisfying redemption arc in recent boxing memory—absolutely FLATTENED Anthony Joshua at Wembley in September.
That knockout was so brutal I actually felt bad watching it. (For about 3 seconds.)
Why Lewis Thinks Dubois Is "The King Slayer"
Lewis—Britain's last undisputed heavyweight champion before all this madness—is backing Dubois to shock the world in their July 19 rematch at Wembley.
In an interview with Queensberry, Lewis didn't mince words: "I'm thinking he's ready. He's been through the trials and tribulations."
"He's the king slayer. He's got the power. He's been there before. He knocked [Usyk] down, so he knows what he needs to do."
God. When Lennox Lewis calls you "the king slayer," that's when you know you've arrived.
Can Lightning Strike Twice?
Lewis continued with his endorsement: "It would be great for him to do it, another man from Great Britain. It's not an easy task, but he's definitely the man that can go through with it."
"He's done the work. He's gone through the pedigree. He's a certified world champion and I think he has big hopes on doing it. He's going to do it."
I spent £200 on tickets to their first fight and nearly threw my drink when that low-blow controversy erupted. This time I've already secured seats that cost me an embarrassing amount of money. Worth every penny if Dubois pulls this off.
The Belt Situation (Because Boxing Is Never Simple)
Usyk, now 38, made history by becoming the first four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion after beating Fury last May. But—and there's always a but in boxing politics—he had to vacate the IBF version to proceed with his December rematch against Fury, which he won on points.
Meanwhile, Dubois, only 27, was elevated from interim to full IBF champ and defended it with that jaw-dropping KO over Joshua at Wembley.
Poor Joshua. That man can't catch a break lately.
The Million-Dollar Question
So will Dubois prove Lewis right on July 19th? Can he actually slay the king?
I've gone back and forth on this about twenty times while writing this article. Usyk is technically brilliant, but Dubois hits like a freight train with anger issues.
My editor bet me $20 that Usyk takes it again. I took that bet faster than a free drink at an open bar.
The rematch is coming. And it feels like watching a volcano that's about to erupt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can boxing improve mental well-being?
Boxing can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress, enhancing mood, boosting self-esteem, providing a sense of accomplishment, and promoting discipline. Focusing on the training can be a meditation that helps to improve concentration and clears the mind.
What equipment am I required to start boxing?
To begin boxing, you require essential gear for safety and effective training. The essential gear includes boxing glove, wrist and hand wraps that protect you, a helmet, a mouthguard for sparring, and a pair or gloves. In addition, athletic clothing and boxing boots are recommended for greater support and better movement.
What kind of diet should a beginner boxer follow?
Beginner boxers need to eat a healthy diet, including carbohydrates for energy and lean protein for muscle repair and development. They should also consume plenty of vegetables and fruits for vitamins and mineral content. Drinking plenty of water is important before, during and after your workouts.
Statistics
- An analysis of boxing workouts demonstrates that participants can maintain a heart rate at 75-85% of their maximum, which is the optimal range for cardiovascular training.
- Beginner boxers tend to make the mistake of holding their breath in 70% of cases during their initial training sessions.
- Approximately 50% of beginner boxers drop out within the first six months, highlighting the importance of sustaining motivation and setting realistic goals.
- On average, beginners who undergo proper boxing training can expect to burn anywhere from 300 to 500 calories per hour.
- Nearly 80% of boxing training injuries are related to incorrect technique, especially within the first three months of taking up the sport.
- Cardiovascular fitness improvements can be seen after just 12 weeks of consistent boxing training.
- It is estimated that 60% of beginner boxers do not use the correct size gloves, which can increase the risk of injury.
- On average, beginner boxers improve their punching power by 10%-20% after six months of consistent training.
- Boxing has one of the lowest rates of injury compared to other contact sports, with approximately 1.1 injuries per 1,000 minutes of athletics.
- Studies suggest that about 30% of beginner boxers tend to neglect the importance of footwork in their initial training phase.
External Links
How To
Learn how to box combinations
Boxing combinations will improve your ability to deliver punches effectively. Begin with simple combinations, such as the jab-cross. Repeat them repeatedly. Add punches to the sequence as you progress. Focus on maintaining balance and fluid movement. By shadowboxing, you can see your form and improve it as you practice.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://sportingexcitement.com/boxing/jake-paul-rips-canelos-boring-win-swears-their-fight-is-still-coming
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