Trainer Denies Party Claims Disrupted Daniel Dubois' Fight Prep

In the wake of Daniel Dubois' fifth-round knockout loss to Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship at Wembley Stadium, Dubois' trainer, Don Charles, has publicly refuted claims that a pre-fight 'party' adversely affected the boxer's preparation for the bout held on July 22, 2025. Charles emphasized that the event was more accurately described as a 'cultural gathering' rather than a party, aimed at preparing Dubois mentally for the fight.

The controversy arose after reports surfaced suggesting that Dubois arrived late to the venue, a claim that has drawn scrutiny in light of his performance against Usyk. According to Charles, Dubois and his team arrived at the arena at 8:20 PM, just 90 minutes before his scheduled ring walk. "We had ample time to undergo all pre-fight preparations necessary to face Usyk," Charles asserted in a statement made to the press following the bout.

Evidence of the gathering, which Charles claims has been mischaracterized, was captured in footage released shortly after the fight. He insisted that similar gatherings had occurred prior to Dubois' earlier bouts, including a previous fight against Anthony Joshua in September 2024, where Dubois also performed well.

"It was more like a gathering, a cultural gathering," Charles said, attempting to clarify the nature of the event. He noted that the ritual organized by Dubois’ father prior to the fight was beneficial in the past and aimed to help his son enter the right mental state. "So many boxers have their little rituals on fight day to support them in performing their best," he explained.

Despite the loss to Usyk, who was declared the winner by all three judges, Charles acknowledged the need for introspection following the fight. He stated, “There were things that we could have done better, but it’s too early to fully digest what happened. We’re still licking our wounds.”

Dubois, regarded as an underdog heading into the bout, had seen a resurgence in his career under Charles, with three consecutive knockout victories prior to facing Usyk. However, the bout itself marked a significant challenge, with Usyk demonstrating dominance throughout the fight, culminating in a decisive left hook that floored Dubois.

Charles also took a moment to praise heavyweight champion Tyson Fury for his public support of Dubois, who had faced criticism following the fight. Fury took to social media, urging fans to refrain from labeling Dubois a 'coward' and asserting that there are no cowards in boxing. “I’m glad someone like him is able to support Dubois. People listen to what Tyson says,” Charles commented, highlighting the importance of positive reinforcement in the sport.

As Dubois recuperates from the fight, he is expected to take a short holiday before returning to training. Charles concluded by noting the exhaustive nature of preparing for fights, stating, “We’ve gone from camp to camp for the last two years. It’s exhausting.”

The aftermath of the fight has sparked discussions about the pressures and expectations placed on boxers, particularly in light of their mental preparation and the impact of external narratives surrounding their performances. Charles' insistence on the cultural significance of the gathering underscores the multifaceted nature of athlete preparation, challenging the stigmas that often accompany professional sports narratives.