Caroline Dubois believes Alycia Baumgardner is hesitant to face her in the ring later this year. Following her victory over Terri Harper to unify the WBC and WBO lightweight world championships, Dubois has been engaging in a war of words 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 has expressed her desire to fight Baumgardner in a high-profile match, but thinks her opponent will struggle against Shin. 'She's fighting one of my past opponents, someone I've already beaten,' Dubois stated. 'I want her to win, as she's a prominent name who knows how to promote a fight and generate hype.
That's why everyone wants to fight her.' However, Dubois also noted that she thinks the fight will be challenging for Baumgardner due to Shin's toughness. The Londoner is increasing the pressure on Baumgardner to agree to a match.
'She doesn't want to fight me,' Dubois said. 'Whenever Alycia Baumgardner's name is mentioned, people always bring up mine.
They're calling for a fight between us, so I don't see why we shouldn't give the fans what they want. It's a great match, and it's up to her promoter and her own courage to make it happen.' Dubois will continue to verbally challenge Baumgardner, just as she did with Harper.
'I don't think I'm being a villain; I'm just confident and speaking my mind,' the Briton said. 'I'm not afraid to express my feelings, even if it triggers some people.' If the fight with Baumgardner can't be arranged, Dubois has other options, including a potential match against Elif Nur Turhan, the IBF champion at 135lbs. 'I don't think Turhan is 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 to create a lasting legacy for myself.'