Daniel Dubois has parted ways with Don Charles and begun training under Tony Sims, a notable shake-up for the 27-year-old heavyweight just weeks after losing his IBF title to Oleksandr Usyk via fifth-round stoppage at Wembley. The move follows Dubois’ recent recruitment of Sam Jones as an advisor and his split from assistant trainer Kieran Farrell - changes that arrive amid wider concerns about the culture around the former belt-holder.
Sims, one of Britain’s most experienced coaches, previously guided Anthony Joshua to the same IBF strap and has recently taken on Johnny Fisher after the latter’s split from Mark Tibbs. He becomes Dubois’ fourth head trainer of an eight-year pro career - and the fourth in under five years - an unusually rapid turnover for a Queensberry Promotions fighter linking up outside the Matchroom stable.
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Charles was hired ahead of Dubois’ first crack at Usyk in 2023. Together they rebuilt impressively, delivering the Londoner’s finest run with consecutive wins over Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and Anthony Joshua - form that saw Dubois installed as IBF champion and defended with a five-round stoppage of Joshua at Wembley. With Usyk then holding the WBA, WBO and WBC titles, a rematch was inevitable; Dubois again entered as the underdog and was stopped, with widespread reports of a fight-day family party fuelling fresh scrutiny of his preparations.
Now, with Sims at the helm and Jones advising, Dubois resets once more. The pedigree in his corner is undeniable; the imperative for stability, just as clear.
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