Frank Warren Pivots to Eubank Jr. vs. Benn After Dubois vs. AJ Delay
Queensberry Promoter Frank Warren has been at the forefront of the recent surge in boxing events during Saudi Arabia's ‘Riyadh Season.’ However, he has now confirmed the unfortunate postponement of one of the most anticipated upcoming cards.
Back in June, Warren notably outperformed rival promoter Eddie Hearn in the ‘Queensberry vs. Matchroom’ showdown, where all five of Warren’s fighters secured victories over their Hearn counterparts. Just three months later, Daniel Dubois made headlines again, dramatically knocking out Anthony Joshua to retain his IBF heavyweight world title, ending Joshua’s impressive run.
Despite the defeat, Joshua has called for a rematch with Dubois, aiming to become boxing’s fifth three-time heavyweight champion. The two were set to meet again on February 22nd, headlining another ‘five vs. five’ event.
However, recent reports have ruled Joshua out of the February date due to injuries, leaving Warren to find a new opponent for Dubois. In an interview with iFL TV, Warren revealed that the February 22nd card will not feature the anticipated ‘five vs. five’ format, explaining that the planned rematch has been pushed back.
“You’re going to love it [the Dubois card]. I promise you, everybody is going to love it,” Warren said. “It won’t be a five vs. five. That is going to be pushed back, but it is going to be a great card.”
Warren also expressed optimism about future ‘five vs. five’ events, especially after signing a broadcasting deal with DAZN.
“I am looking forward to the five vs. five, especially now that we are all under the same umbrella. It is going to be easier to arrange,” he added. “We can do them in Riyadh, where they originated from, or we might do one here. Who knows? You can do them at different levels now, and I’m really looking forward to it.”
As for the February 22nd card, potential matchups being discussed include Chris Eubank Jr.’s grudge match with Conor Benn, a unification clash featuring pound-for-pound star Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, and a world title opportunity for undefeated British middleweight Hamzah Sheeraz.
