On a warm London evening, 19 July, Wembley Stadium once again became the epicentre of the world boxing scene: Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois stepped into their second head-to-head bout, which instantly entered history not only as a sporting event but also as a financial phenomenon.
Usyk’s Second Ascent to the Heavyweight Throne
The Ukrainian superstar reaffirmed his status as a division phenomenon, regaining the IBF belt that had once been his and, for the second time, collecting the “full set” of titles. The contest again failed to reach the final bell: Usyk seized the initiative from range, blending his jab with a left cross, while Dubois relied on raw power and body attacks. The denouement came in the late rounds — the referee halted the bout, registering a premature victory for the champion.
Contracts on a Cosmic Scale
The financial side of the rematch is no less astonishing than the boxers’ technique. According to News Bet365 estimates, the total purse soared to a colossal $203.5 million. Under the distribution fixed in the parties’ agreements, 65 % of the amount (about $132.3 million) went to Usyk’s account, whereas Dubois earned around $71.2 million — an absolute record for his career. Crucially, these figures are guaranteed: PPV sales cannot diminish them.
Purse Evolution of Two Fighters
Just two years ago, meeting in Wroclaw, Poland, the opponents split a relatively modest $8 million: Usyk pocketed $6 million and the Briton only $2 million. Even then the Ukrainian stressed that “the chase for history” mattered more to him than zeros in a bank account. Since then the numbers have grown geometrically: victory over Tyson Fury brought Usyk $45 million, the rematch — $114 million, and tonight surpassed both figures. Dubois likewise made a financial leap: after a $13.5 million cheque for his title fight with Anthony Joshua, the new figure almost matched Fury’s payout in his second encounter with Usyk.
Legacy and Next Step
Usyk has already inscribed his name in the annals as the first two-time undisputed champion of the four-belt era. He must now address his mandatory challengers: Joseph Parker from the WBO list and Agit Kabayel mandated by the WBC await the call. Dubois, having lost the belt, will most likely face Derek Chisora to reclaim his No. 1 ranking spot.
Why Wembley Again Proved the Best Venue for Heavyweight Shows
The London venue once more demonstrated that, with astute matchmaking and a robust promotional campaign, any elite bout can be transformed into a grand spectacle where sporting intrigue merges with staggering commercial success. The record cheques of Usyk and Dubois are clear evidence that modern heavyweight boxing stands on the threshold of a new “golden age”.
