Daniel Dubois has re-emerged as a heavyweight champion, stopping Fabio Wardley in the 11th round to claim the WBO title. The victory, however, was not without its drama. Dubois found himself on the canvas twice early in the bout, including a knockdown just 10 seconds into the fight, before mounting a comeback. This marks Wardley's first professional defeat.
The post-fight landscape immediately pointed towards two potential future confrontations for Dubois. Promoter Frank Warren confirmed a rematch clause exists for Wardley. Simultaneously, rising contender Moses Itauma, who was present at ringside, has been positioned as a potential next opponent if a Wardley rematch doesn't materialize.
Wardley, previously undefeated, had earned his title shot by defeating Joseph Parker. Dubois, now with a record of 23 wins and 3 losses, has a history of facing top-ranked opponents and often entering as the underdog.
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The fight itself was described as a "thrilling heavyweight classic" and an "all-time classic," with Dubois absorbing significant punishment before turning the tide. Wardley's face reportedly showed considerable damage by the later rounds, with his nose streaming blood. Dubois also sustained a swollen left eye.
"Frank Warren has revealed that a fight with Moses Itauma could follow for Daniel Dubois if there isn’t a rematch with Fabio Wardley."
Wardley himself has acknowledged the intensity of potential future bouts, including one against Itauma, framing "the three of us" as the next generation of heavyweight contenders.
The WBO president has indicated a willingness to recommend Itauma as a mandatory challenger, especially following Itauma's recent performance against Jermaine Franklin.
