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Daniel Dubois Reunites with Trainer Don Charles After Split

1/27/2026, 12:15:30 AM

Overview of the Reunion

Daniel Dubois has announced his return to trainer Don Charles, just five months after parting ways following a defeat to Oleksandr Usyk. Dubois, who had initially joined Charles in 2023, experienced a successful run that included winning the IBF heavyweight title. However, after losing to Usyk in July 2024, he decided to switch trainers, working briefly with Tony Sims before reversing his decision to rejoin Charles.

Background of the Partnership

Dubois and Charles began their collaboration in 2023, culminating in a ninth-round TKO loss to Usyk in August of that year. Despite this setback, the duo achieved significant success, including victories over Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic, and a notable win against Anthony Joshua in September 2024, where Dubois retained his title. However, following a second defeat to Usyk in July 2024, Dubois announced his split from Charles, seeking a fresh start in his boxing career.

Details of the Reunion

The announcement of Dubois' return to Charles was made through a statement by his business partner, Riz Khan. The statement emphasized that Dubois had taken time to reflect on his career and the decision to part ways with Charles. It confirmed that Dubois would resume his professional relationship with Charles, under whom he had achieved his greatest accomplishments. The statement read, "Daniel has decided to resume his professional relationship with Don Charles and his coaching team... Daniel will now return to working with Don Charles, under whose corner he achieved his greatest accomplishments to date."

Criticism and Opposition

Following Dubois' initial split from Charles, there were claims that the decision was influenced by external pressures, particularly from Dubois' father, Stan. Charles expressed disappointment over the split, suggesting that Dubois was not entirely in control of the decision. He stated, “Daniel’s not capable of making that decision. That was made for him... He’s been influenced heavily — Stan Dubois.” This perspective highlights the complexities surrounding Dubois' career decisions and the dynamics within his support team.

What's Next for Dubois

While Dubois has confirmed his reunion with Charles, details regarding his next fight remain unannounced. The boxing community is awaiting further updates from Team Dubois, as the heavyweight aims to regain momentum in his career following a challenging period.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “It read: "On behalf of Team Dubois, I wish to confirm to the media and all relevant parties that Daniel has decided to resume his professional relationship with Don Charles and his coaching team.” — Riz Khan, Business Partner
  • “I want to take this moment to thank Don Charles and his team for all the time, effort, and hard work they've put into me over the past 18 months.” — Daniel Dubois
  • “I can categorically [say] Daniel’s not capable of making that decision. That was made for him and he was the one who had to action it, deliver it because he is the fighter,” — Don Charles, Trainer

This reunion marks a significant moment in Dubois' career as he seeks to rebuild and aim for future titles under the guidance of a trainer who has previously led him to success.