Caroline Dubois believes Alycia Baumgardner is hesitant to face her in the ring later this year. Dubois recently unified the WBC and WBO lightweight world championships by defeating Terri Harper, and has since been engaged in a verbal exchange with the American boxer. Baumgardner is set to defend her IBF, WBA, and WBO super-featherweight titles against Bo Mi Re Shin in New York.
Dubois hopes Baumgardner emerges victorious, but expects a tough fight. 'She's fighting an opponent I've already beaten,' Dubois stated. 'I want her to win, as she's a big name who does everything right in terms of promotion and buildup.' However, Dubois also acknowledged that Shin will be a formidable challenge for Baumgardner. The Londoner is applying pressure on Baumgardner to agree to a high-profile bout, claiming that Baumgardner is reluctant to face her.
'Every time Alycia Baumgardner's name is mentioned, mine is always brought up,' Dubois said. 'People want to see us fight, and I don't understand why we can't give them what they want. It's a great fight, but it's up to her promoter and whether she can find the courage to face me.' Dubois will continue to speak her mind and assert her confidence, even if it's perceived as playing the villain.
'I'm not being a villain, I'm just stating the truth and expressing my feelings,' she explained. 'I'm not afraid to say what I think, and if people are triggered by that, it's up to them.' If a fight with Baumgardner can't be arranged, Dubois has other options, including a potential bout against Elif Nur Turhan, the current IBF champion at 135lbs. 'I don't think she's a skilled fighter, but she's dangerous, and that's what makes the fight exciting,' Dubois said.
'I want to continue progressing and be involved in the biggest fights, creating a great legacy for myself.'