By Victor Kanayo
Global heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine has defeated British challenger Daniel Dubois to retain his WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight boxing world titles.
Some months ago, Usyk had humiliated Anthony Joshua to claim the titles.
Usyk’s Latest Victorious Outing, Waiting For Fury
Usyk had been in control of the fight against a 25-year-old regarded by most as an underdog for whom victory would have ranked as a major upset.
As captured by Reuters, Puerto Rican referee Luis Pabon counted out Dubois after he went down 48 seconds into the ninth round at the open-air Tarczynski Arena in Wroclaw, Poland.
Dubois was also given a nine count at the end of the previous round, but the key moment came in round five when Usyk, now with a record of 21-0, went down gasping for breath after being hit on the band of his shorts.
The referee ruled it a low blow and told Usyk to take his time as he remained on the canvas grimacing and shaking his head, with the round eventually continuing.
Dubois, who lasted longer than expected but took some big blows with blood oozing from his nose early in round nine, said the blow was legal.
After securing another victory, the Ukrainian said he was now ready to fight WBA heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.
