Daniel Dubois's boxing journey is about to take an exciting turn, but don't expect a gentle return after his battles with Oleksandr Usyk. Trainer Tony Sims, who recently joined forces with Dubois, is incredibly impressed with his new protégé. This partnership began late last year, marking a significant shift in Dubois's career.
Following consecutive defeats to the formidable Oleksandr Usyk, Dubois made the bold decision to part ways with his former trainer, Don Charles, and his padman, Kieran Farrell. He then brought in manager Sam Jones and, crucially, trainer Tony Sims, a seasoned professional with a track record of success in the heavyweight division. Sims's impressive resume includes working with former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and Demsey McKean. He also currently trains the rising star, Johnny Fisher.
Sims believes that Dubois, with a record of 22 wins and 3 losses (21 by knockout), possesses the potential to defeat anyone on his best day. He anticipates a high-profile fight for Dubois's comeback. "I don't think it will be a tick-over fight," Sims stated. "I feel like it's going to be a good year for the heavyweights... With the top 10 in the world, I don't know that there's a tick-over fight there for anyone."
Interestingly, Sims and Dubois's relationship goes back years, predating their official partnership. Sims used to train Anthony Joshua, and Dubois would often visit to spar. "I knew him when he was young from sparring Joshua," Sims recalls. "I've known him since he was 18 years old and he was a phenomenal puncher then. He trains hard, he lives the life and he's still so young. He's only 27."
Sims emphasizes that Dubois is more than just a powerful puncher. "He's got good footwork, good balance," Sims explains. He acknowledges Dubois's raw power, stating, "I feel it's the same with most heavyweights, if they connect properly, it's lights out and Daniel's probably the biggest puncher out of all of them. He's in with a shot of beating anybody."
But here's where it gets controversial... Dubois has been linked to a potential fight with Fabio Wardley. Meanwhile, Tyson Fury has announced his plans to return to the ring in 2026. Fury, after suffering back-to-back losses to Usyk, took a year-long break, which he initially termed as retirement.
Sims and Dubois are back in the gym, with Dubois returning after some downtime in the Caribbean.
What do you think? Will Dubois's new partnership with Sims propel him to new heights? Is a 'tick-over' fight even possible in the current heavyweight landscape? Share your thoughts in the comments!
