By Daniel Dubois achieved a significant victory by defeating Filip Hrgovic in the eighth round to win the IBF interim world heavyweight title, setting the stage for a potential bout with Anthony Joshua. The match in Riyadh ended when the referee, following medical advice, stopped the fight due to Hrgovic’s injuries.
The interim title could lead to a full championship if Oleksandr Usyk vacates or is stripped of his title. Dubois, now with a record of 21-2, is poised for a title fight, possibly at Wembley Stadium in London.
Deontay Wilder’s career suffered a setback as he was knocked out by Zhilei Zhang in the fifth round, diminishing his chances of a future fight with Joshua. Zhang’s victory was a comeback after a previous loss to Joseph Parker, keeping him in the spotlight of the heavyweight division.
Dubois expressed his readiness to face Joshua, while Zhang reflected on his strategy against Wilder and his focus on the path to the championship. The night’s outcomes have reshaped the heavyweight boxing landscape, with Dubois emerging as a new contender and Wilder facing an uncertain future.
