Dillian Whyte has given his view on the quitting debate that is surrounding Daniel Dubois.
Dubois rose to his feet at the count of 10 and walked back to his corner, which is what has drawn the criticism that he could have carried on, though nobody can be certain how the young Brit was feeling after two knockdowns.
It’s not the first time he has been accused of this, with similar instances occurring in losses to Joe Joyce and his first fight with Usyk in August 2023.
Speaking to IFL TV, former world heavyweight title challenger Whyte – who fights Moses Itauma next month – had some understanding for Dubois.
“The last knockdown was a big punch. It was a proper one and it was right on his jawline as well. Maybe he was gone. Maybe he’s just so fit he looked like he was alright. But maybe he was gone. You don’t know.”
Whyte then finished by stating he does not consider Dubois a quitter.
“It’s easy to stand and say he quit. I don’t think he quit, he just got clocked proper and was disorientated and obviously Dubois is the kind of guy that he likes to look for his dad when he’s in trouble, so maybe he got clocked and then just looking around couldn’t see his father to reassure him. I don’t know. Anybody who gets in there and fights at the top level, I don’t think they’re quitters to be honest.”
In the ring afterwards, Dubois was quick to say he will be back. Many believe he still has what it takes to be a world champion again in future.