Daniel Dubois vs Joe Joyce: All-British heavyweight fight rescheduled for October at London’s O2 Arena

Match-up was originally set to take place on 11 July before a coronavirus-enforced delay

An all-British showdown between unbeaten heavyweights Daniel Dubois and Joe Joyce has been rearranged for 24 October at London’s O2 Arena.

The contest was originally set for 11 July and was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic, but promoter Frank Warren is optimistic of the fight going ahead on its new date – potentially with some fans in attendance.

“It will be a fight to remember, everyone wants to see it,” Warren said.

“Lockdown has meant a delay, but we all want the fight to take place in October and we are hopeful that the government will give us the all clear.

“What a position the winner will be in. They will be nailed on for a world title shot in 2021.”

Warren has already announced three shows at the BT Sport Studio behind closed doors, the first of which will be held on 10 July – a date that is set to mark the resumption of professional boxing in the country.

British and Commonwealth champion Dubois has won all 14 of his professional bouts – all but one inside the distance – while Joyce, a Rio 2016 silver medallist, boasts a 10-0 record with nine stoppages.

Joyce said: “It was great news to get the new date so I can finally punch up Dubois.

“Now gyms are open for athletes I can kick on and just keep my focus on the new date, finally settling the score with Dubois and moving on to a world title fight.”

PA