Eddie Hearn Criticizes Handling of Anthony Joshua’s Defeat Against Daniel Dubois

Promoter Eddie Hearn has voiced criticism regarding the handling of Anthony Joshua‘s boxing match against Daniel Dubois, focusing on an incident involving a low blow that did not lead to a temporary halt in the fight. The bout, held on Saturday night, saw Dubois deliver a dominant performance, eventually defeating Joshua with a powerful right counter that left the 34-year-old unable to stand.

The match experienced a momentary pause in the penultimate round when Dubois delivered a low blow to Joshua. Referee Marcus McDonnell intervened promptly with over 90 seconds remaining in the round, cautioning Dubois for the punch. Despite boxing rules that allow up to five minutes for recovery from a low blow, Joshua expressed no resistance and McDonnell signaled for the fight to continue.

Eddie Hearn remarked on Joshua’s ‘inexperience’ in this scenario but praised the boxer’s resolve, implying that Joshua’s refusal to delay the match demonstrated his competitive nature. ‘People always question people’s heart,’ Hearn stated, adding, ‘When Daniel Dubois hit him in the nuts in the third or fourth round, I’m screaming at AJ to take the full five minutes.’

Following Joshua’s defeat, which marks his fourth professional career loss, Hearn dismissed suggestions that Joshua should retire. Instead, Hearn expressed the possibility of a rematch against Dubois in 2025. He emphasized that it was the first time in Joshua’s career where he was significantly hurt to the point of being unable to continue.

Hearn also indicated that Joshua, despite being in the later stages of his career, hasn’t acquired significant wear. He mentioned, ‘AJ is a heavyweight who doesn’t actually have many miles on the clock.’ Looking forward, Hearn suggested that Joshua remains involved in future fights, potentially against highly ranked opponents such as Tyson Fury.

Moreover, Hearn underlined the importance of Joshua’s legacy and health, stating the intent is to ensure Joshua leaves the sport with a substantial legacy and financial security, yet also with his health intact. ‘Our interests are for him to leave this sport with legacy, with a huge amount of money in the bank but also with his health intact,’ Hearn concluded.