Daniel Dubois has been cautioned about the immense pressure of facing Anthony Joshua at Wembley, according to Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn.
Dubois is set to defend his heavyweight world title against the former two-time champion in front of a massive crowd at the national stadium on Saturday.
Hearn, speaking before the fight, voiced concerns about Dubois’ ability to handle the occasion, despite his experience from fighting Oleksandr Usyk in a stadium setting last year.
“I think his head will fall off,” Hearn said. “That could make him more dangerous, but I’m not sure he’ll be able to execute his game plan. He might come out like a bull, which could be his best chance, but he might also get bumped.”
While Dubois’ fight with Usyk in Poland gave him some experience on the big stage, Hearn insists that facing Joshua at Wembley in front of up to 96,000 fans will present a completely different level of pressure.
“When he makes that walk through the tunnel and stands in front of that crowd, I don’t think he’ll be able to compose himself like AJ,” Hearn added.
For Joshua, this fight is his first world title challenge since his loss to Usyk in their 2021 rematch. Hearn believes the 34-year-old is embracing the role of challenger rather than champion and is more motivated than ever to reclaim his position at the top of the heavyweight division.
“He’s dialled in,” Hearn said. “He knows how much he needs this win and what being a world champion again means for his legacy. I think it suits him to come in as the challenger.”
While Hearn acknowledged Dubois’ interim champion status, he emphasised that Joshua’s experience and focus could prove decisive on the night.
