British professional boxer, Daniel Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren has said that an immediate rematch between IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua will not take place.
Gatekeepers News reports that Warren confirmed that they are now exploring alternative opponents for Dubois’ next fight.
IBF President, Daryl Peoples recently confirmed that Dubois can make an optional title defense against any ranked opponent before April 22.
Recall that Dubois knocked out Anthony Joshua in five thrilling rounds of their September bout, retaining his IBF heavyweight world title.
Dubois was expected to face Anthony Joshua again as the later’s promoter, Eddie Hearn shortly after the fight, expressed optimism about a rematch, noting that negotiations were progressing positively. However, talks have been stalled due to mismatched timelines for the boxers.
Hearn said AJ still recovering from niggles sustained in their first encounter and will require additional recovery time.
Also, Dubois is targeting a February 22 return, which Hearn says would be too soon for Anthony Joshua to fully recover and be at his best. Hearn suggested pushing the fight to a later date, but Warren wants Dubois to stay active and chose to move on from the rematch.
Warren told boxNation, “I don’t see that happening next.”
“We are looking at a couple of things at the moment and will make a decision. I was hoping to get it done quickly, but it won’t happen this time. We need to focus on Dubois and keep him on track for February 22.”
“With the greatest respect, we’re in the Daniel Dubois business. He’s the one that matters to me, and he wants to fight on that date.”
