Oleksandr Usyk sports a lean physique in revealing social media post ahead of heavyweight title defence clash against Brit Daniel Dubois in August
- Oleksandr Usyk is set to face-off against Daniel Dubois on August 26 in Poland
- The fight will be the Ukrainian’s first since beating Anthony Joshua last August
- The 36-year-old shocked fans with his new look ahead of the title defence
Oleksandr Usyk stunned boxing fans on Monday with a social media post showing off his new physique ahead of his heavyweight title defence against Daniel Dubois.
The pair are set to battle it out in Poland on August 26 in the Ukrainian’s first fight since his split decision victory against Anthony Joshua last year.
The victory took his record to 20-0, marginally better than his upcoming opponent, whose power – best exhibited in his 18 knockout wins – could prove to be a challenge for the 36-year-old. Particularly if he is not in top condition.
Usyk’s leaner frame certainly poses some questions on his ability to extend his winning record, especially when compared to his more muscular body in last August’s win against Joshua.
There is of course no need for alarm as the current WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight champion still has two months to prepare for the clash.
Oleksandr Usyk showed of his new slimmed down look after a gym session in a post on Monday
The Ukrainian looked considerably heavier in his split decision victory against Anthony Joshua
Usyk will put his belts on the line against 25-year-old Brit Daniel Dubois on August 26 in Poland
Despite the revelation it would be a surprise to see Usyk turn up to the weigh-in as pictured, having competed at around 220lbs in his four heavyweight bouts.
Before that point, the Ukrainian contested 16 fights at the cruiserweight 200lbs limit, becoming undisputed before moving up the weight classes.
In his two clashes with Joshua, Usyk came in at 221lbs, 20lbs lighter than his opponent. The champ will be expected to considerably bulk up during the run-in to the fight and will rely on his movement as he attempts to retain the three belts and keep hope of an undisputed fight against Tyson Fury alive.
However, the 25-year-old Dubois will be desperate to throw the cat amongst the pigeons and cause an upset after securing the title shot once negotiations between Usyk and Fury broke down.
Dubois’ last outing came against Kevin Lerena at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in December which ended in a third round TKO in favour of the Londoner.
