Boxing
Daniel Dubois Parts Ways with Long-Time Trainer Don Charles
2025-08-19

In a pivotal development for his professional journey, heavyweight boxer Daniel Dubois has decided to part ways with his esteemed coach, Don Charles. This decision comes shortly after Dubois' second consecutive loss to Oleksandr Usyk, prompting the fighter to seek fresh guidance and a new approach for the future. The overhaul extends beyond just his head coach, as co-trainer Kieran Farrell has also exited the team, signaling a comprehensive restructuring aimed at reigniting Dubois' championship aspirations.

Daniel Dubois Seeks New Direction After Usyk Rematch

In a significant shift within the professional boxing landscape, Daniel Dubois, the formidable heavyweight contender, announced on August 19, 2025, his separation from long-standing trainer Don Charles. This pivotal decision, revealed through a social media video message from Dubois, comes less than a month after his second consecutive knockout defeat to the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk. The latest encounter, where Dubois was stopped in the fifth round, underscored the necessity for change in his strategic approach.

Dubois had partnered with Charles approximately 18 months prior, specifically to prepare for his initial bout against Usyk in 2023. Despite their intensive work together, the outcomes against Usyk have compelled Dubois to seek a new direction. In his public statement, the 27-year-old British boxer expressed gratitude for Charles's dedication and hard work, while emphasizing his need for a 'fresh change and a new start' to embark on his quest to become a two-time heavyweight world champion. Adding to the changes, reports indicate that co-trainer Kieran Farrell has also departed from Dubois's corner, signifying a complete revamp of his coaching team.

While Dubois's team undergoes this comprehensive reconstruction, early whispers from within boxing circles suggest that renowned trainer Tony Sims is being considered as a potential new head coach. However, these speculations remain unconfirmed as Dubois weighs his options for the crucial next phase of his career. At 27, Dubois still possesses ample time to reassess, regroup, and strategize his return to the pinnacle of heavyweight boxing. This period of transition marks a critical juncture for Dubois, who now faces the challenge of finding the right mentor to guide him back to championship contention.

From a reflective standpoint, Dubois's decision highlights the relentless pursuit of excellence and the brutal honesty required in elite professional sports. When results consistently fall short, even long-standing partnerships must be re-evaluated for the sake of progression. This move by Dubois serves as a poignant reminder that growth often demands uncomfortable changes. It underscores the athlete's unwavering commitment to achieving his ultimate goal of becoming a world champion, demonstrating a proactive mindset in the face of adversity. This strategic pivot could very well define the trajectory of his promising career, setting the stage for a compelling comeback narrative under new leadership.

more stories
See more