Boxing fans, buckle up, because the Usyk-Dubois II undercard just got serious.

On July 19 at London’s legendary Wembley Stadium, South Africa’s Kevin “2 Guns” Lerena steps back onto the world stage in a can’t-miss showdown against Britain’s Lawrence Okolie. Slotted on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois II, this heavyweight scrap could steal the show—and maybe even shake up the world title picture.

This isn’t just a tune-up. It’s a throwback grudge match. A power vs precision chessboard. A WBC Silver Heavyweight Title clash with major implications.

Lerena (31-3, 15 KOs), a slick southpaw with serious dog in him, enters the bout with fire in his gut. American fans might remember his explosive 2022 fight with Dubois—when he dropped the Brit three times in the opening round before a controversial third-round stoppage derailed what could’ve been the upset of the year. That night, he didn’t win, but he won respect.

Now, after a statement-making KO over Serhiy Radchenko just two months ago, Lerena is jumping right back into the fire. He wants it. And he’s got Okolie in his sights.

Okolie (21-1, 16 KOs) is no soft touch. The former WBO Cruiserweight World Champ has power in both hands and made his heavyweight debut in emphatic fashion with a first-round demolition job last December. But Lerena? He’s a different beast—awkward, gritty, and built for long nights. This one has 12-round war written all over it.

More than a belt is on the line. This is about relevance in boxing’s glamour division. The winner likely punches their ticket into the elite heavyweight conversation. The loser? Back to the queue. But it’s also personal. These two were on a collision course years ago before Okolie moved up and vacated his bridgerweight strap. Now, they meet with higher stakes—and a bigger audience.

This is a huge moment for South African boxing, too. With the sport growing across the continent, Lerena has become the face of the country’s resurgence. A win at Wembley would rocket him into title contention and put African heavyweights right back in the global spotlight.

And let’s not forget the main event. Usyk vs. Dubois II promises fireworks after their controversial first bout, where Dubois floored Usyk with a body shot that sparked international debate. It’s a card loaded with international intrigue—from British champ Lewis Edmondson to Ukrainian star Daniel Lapin.

But make no mistake: Lerena vs. Okolie is no filler. It’s a fight fan’s dream—high stakes, bad blood, world-class skill, and two men who need the win.

On July 19, Kevin Lerena walks back into the lion’s den at Wembley. But this time? He’s not just there to compete. He’s there to conquer.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]