-Deborah Akinyosoye
Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has plummeted six places in the latest WBO rankings following his defeat to Daniel Dubois, while Nigeria’s Efe Ajagba is the 10th position.
Joshua, who went into the fight as the world No. 1 and hot favourite, suffered a shocking fifth-round knockout loss to Dubois at Wembley Stadium in front of 95,000 fans. The defeat has seen the British-Nigerian boxer drop from the top spot to seventh place in the rankings.
The 34-year-old was knocked down four times in five rounds before the referee waved off the contest.
Despite the setback, AJ remains defiant about his future in boxing, stating his stance in a video message to his fans.
He said, “It’s about making the right steps forward and working hard. Keep your seatbelts on because deep, deep down in (my heart), I know we’ve got a lot more to bring. British Boxing, I appreciate you, and let’s rise up together.”
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has hinted at a potential rematch with Dubois, as he is still contracted for one more fight with Saudi Arabia boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh and Riyadh Season.
The current WBO rankings reflect the recent shakeup in the heavyweight division. Oleksandr Usyk remains the undisputed champion, with Joseph Parker holding the interim title.
Tyson Fury now leads the pack of contenders, with rising Chinese star Zhilei Zhang in second place.
Martin Bakole’s recent performances have earned him the third spot, while Agit Kabayel and Justis Huni round out the top five.