Dubois Team to Conduct Internal Review Following Pre-Fight Gathering

Daniel Dubois' team will undertake an internal review after a video emerged showing a gathering at the boxer's home just hours before his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk last Saturday. The 27-year-old British fighter lost his IBF title after being stopped in the fifth round of the highly anticipated rematch at Wembley Stadium.

Dubois arrived at the stadium around 20:15 BST, less than two hours before his scheduled ring walk. His trainer, Don Charles, acknowledged the event but preferred to call it a "gathering" rather than a party. He confirmed that more than 30 people were present.

"We'll hold an internal inquest on what happened," Charles told BBC Sport. "Questions will be asked by Frank and George Warren." The promoter and his son are expected to meet with Dubois' team to discuss the incident.

Charles defended the gathering, stating that a similar event had taken place before Dubois' upset victory over Anthony Joshua in September. "It's not unusual," he said. "This gathering is the same gathering which was used for the AJ fight day preparation."

There are unsubstantiated reports that the gathering was organized by Dubois' father, with suggestions that the fighter left the event briefly to go for a drive. Charles dismissed any implication that this was a sign of distress. "Daniel went for a drive, like you do," he said. "He's a fighter who's fighting on that day."

It is also alleged that some members of Dubois' entourage were denied entry to the venue, contributing to the late arrival. Charles was unaware of this situation but was satisfied with Dubois' demeanor upon arrival. "I had 90 minutes to prepare him," he said. "I didn't see a fighter unsettled."

Usyk, who also defeated Dubois in their first encounter in 2023, floored the Londoner twice in the fifth round of the rematch, with Dubois unable to beat the count after the second knockdown. Despite the loss, Charles praised Usyk as "an all-time great" and expressed confidence in Dubois' ability to bounce back.

Dubois has previously faced criticism for "quitting" in defeats to Joe Joyce and Usyk, but Charles insisted his fighter showed resilience. "He went out on his sword," he said. "He took a punch - a horrible punch - and made the count. I didn't want any more for him. I want him to live to fight another day."