He sent Dubois to a neutral corner and allowed the distraught champion ample time to recover. Usyk slumped to the canvas in agony and the referee immediately signalled that the blow was illegal. It was still won by Usyk but then, 30 seconds into the fifth, Dubois unleashed a hard right hand which landed on or just below the belt. Moving ceaselessly and counter-punching, Usyk must have heard the chorus of his name booming around the arena but, to his credit, Dubois managed to close the distance and make round four more competitive. But the round belonged to the patient and adroit Usyk, who clipped Dubois repeatedly with his jab and a few blurring combinations. Dubois did at least try to go to the body and also used a double jab to remind Usyk that he needed to be vigilant. The champion’s slick movement meant Dubois landed only sporadic blows as Usyk delivered the sharper work again in the third. Dubois came out for the second with more deliberate intent but, halfway through, Usyk caught him with a beautiful left that startled the Londoner with its speed and power. Dubois struggled initially to find his range against the elusive and cat-like Usyk, who landed the more effective punches with his jab in the opening round. Heavy rain fell as the bout began but the fighters were protected by a canopy over the ring.
