Boxing Showdown: Hrgović Vows to Retire if Defeated by Dubois
In a high-stakes clash, undefeated heavyweight Filip Hrgović, the IBF’s current No. 1 rated heavyweight, will face former world title challenger Daniel Dubois on June 1 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The bout is part of a new concept that pits five members of Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing stable against Frank Warren’s Queensberry stable.
Hrgović, who boasts an impressive 17-0 record with 14 knockouts, has issued a stern ultimatum regarding his career. The Croatian boxer stated that if he were to be defeated by Dubois, 20-2 (19 KOs), he would retire, as he firmly believes he is the best heavyweight in the world.
“Of course,” Hrgović told IFL TV when asked if he would hang up the gloves for good if he lost. “I think I am the best. I am working hard, and I have been in this sport for 18 years, working like a f****** maniac. If I lose to Dubois, then f*** that s*** man. I would not be as good as I think, so I would retire.”
The upcoming clash between Hrgović and Dubois has added significance, as it could potentially challenge for the vacant heavyweight title if the belts become available following the highly anticipated undisputed light-heavyweight title encounter between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol on May 18.
During the press conference, Dubois briefly mentioned a previous sparring session between the two heavyweights, claiming he is now a different fighter. However, Hrgović dismissed Dubois’ comments, stating that he did not understand why the British heavyweight contender brought up the sparring session, as it did not go well for Dubois.
“I do not know why he mentioned the sparring,” Hrgović said. “That sparring was not so good for him and I do not know why he mentioned it. If I were him, I would have kept quiet about it. He said that he has changed. Of course, he has changed because he was very young when we sparred but I, too, was young. I think he has improved, but you can never change your character because you are who you are.”
The highly anticipated clash between Hrgović and Dubois is set to take place on June 1 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for the future of the heavyweight division.
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