There are unconfirmed reports the gathering was organised by Dubois’ father, and suggestions the fighter left during the event to go for a short drive. Charles rejected claims this was a sign of distress.
“To put logic to it, the father mainly replicated the recipe that worked against AJ to hopefully get a victory last Saturday. And it didn’t work. Consequently, there is now a big highlight on this party, which was a gathering,” he said.
“Daniel went for a drive, like you do. He’s a fighter who’s fighting on that day. If he wanted to get some fresh air or whatever, it’s not unusual to say ‘I’m going for a drive.'”
It is also alleged that some members of Dubois’ entourage were refused entry to the venue, contributing to the late arrival. Charles said he was unaware of that situation but was content with how Dubois presented himself on arrival.
“I had 90 minutes to prepare him – the duration of a football game – and I was satisfied,” he said. “I didn’t see a fighter unsettled. He seemed the Daniel Dubois that I knew, who I see every day in the gym.”
Usyk – who also stopped Dubois in the ninth round of their 2023 bout – floored the Londoner twice in the fifth round of the rematch, with Dubois unable to beat the count after the second knockdown.
Dubois has previously faced criticism for “quitting” in defeats to Joe Joyce and Usyk, but Charles insisted his fighter showed bravery.
“He went out on his sword,” he said. “He took a punch – a horrible punch – and made the count. The referee waved it off. I’d already thrown the towel in anyway. I didn’t want any more for him. I want him to live to fight another day. That’s what I’m paid for.”
Despite the defeat, Charles praised Usyk as “an all-time great” and said Dubois remains determined to bounce back.
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