Controversy Surrounding Dubois’ Low Blow
The contentious issue regarding Daniel Dubois‘ low blow on Oleksandr Usyk during their first encounter is back in the spotlight as the heavyweight fighters prepare for a rematch. In a recent interview with Martin Armbruster from sport.de, Bernd Boente, once the manager for the Klitschko brothers, offered his strong opinion on the controversial punch that caused Usyk to drop to the canvas in the fifth round two years ago in Wroclaw, Poland. This specific blow was swiftly deemed illegal by referee Luis Pabon, who ruled it a low blow.
Boente’s Perspective
Boente articulated his stance clearly:
“It was undoubtedly a low blow. The rules are straightforward: if a significant portion of the fist is beneath the belt, it qualifies as a low blow. At the moment it happened, it was difficult to discern, but upon reviewing it in super slow motion, the evidence is indisputable.”
The aftermath of the incident led to considerable debate, especially among UK fans and pundits who argued that the shot was legal. However, Boente maintained that visual evidence supports his claim that the punch was indeed below the legal line.
“Had referee Pabon not ruled it a low blow, Usyk would have certainly continued fighting,”
Boente remarked.
“Instead, because of that ruling, he was allowed time to recover.”
If the referee had initiated a count for Usyk, who was briefly stunned but not out, the fight would have continued rather than concluded. Boente pointed out that the shot was categorized as an illegal low blow rather than a legal liver shot, which would have been permissible under the rules.
Impact on the Rematch Narrative
Since the initial bout, the incident has played a significant role in the narrative leading into the rematch, with Dubois and his promoter, Frank Warren, arguing that the punch should have been deemed a knockdown or even a potential knockout. In contrast, critics, including WBN, have dismissed this viewpoint, suggesting that Usyk would have responded as needed had a count begun.
In a lighthearted comparison, Boente likened the ongoing debate to one of football’s most controversial moments – the 1966 Wembley goal.
“It’s reminiscent of that legendary moment in football,”
he chuckled.
“Some believe it crossed the line, while others contest it. The photos now contradict the referee’s call. Yet, it seems many in England will forever deny the legitimacy of the low blow.”
Conclusion
Boente concluded firmly that the situation is straightforward:
“It was a low blow. Dubois and Warren’s differing perspective is understandable as they look for an advantage heading into the rematch.”
About the Author
Phil Jay brings over 15 years of boxing journalism experience to the table. As the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, he has covered numerous significant boxing events and conducted interviews with various world champions, highlighting his expertise in the sport’s global scene.
