Wardley vs Dubois confirmed: British heavyweight rivals set for title war

Fabio Wardley will defend his WBO heavyweight title against Daniel Dubois in a massive all-British clash at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena on Saturday, 9 May.

The unbeaten champion is making the first defence of his belt against his domestic rival in a bout promising destructive power.

High stakes surround this encounter, with the victor potentially lining up a blockbuster showdown against Tyson Fury later this year.

Eyes on the ultimate prize

Fury has admitted he is open to facing the winner, provided they emerge victorious from this domestic dust-up.

Wardley secured the WBO crown in November after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the strap rather than facing a mandatory defence against the Ipswich fighter.

Now, the 31-year-old is looking to cement his legacy by choosing a voluntary defence against one of the division’s heaviest hitters.

“I’ve never been in this game to mess around or play small. Big fights only!”

Fabio Wardley

The champion remains supremely confident in his matchmaking decisions.

“I’m the champion, this is a voluntary defence. I picked him. One thing you can’t say about me is that I’ve ever shied away from a challenge.”

Redemption and knockouts

Dubois is aiming to reclaim world champion status following the end of his IBF reign.

The Londoner suffered a knockout defeat to Usyk in their Wembley rematch last July but has rebuilt his team ahead of this explosive challenge.

Following a brief split, the former champion has reunited with trainer Don Charles to prepare for the trip to Manchester.

Both men enter the ring in ominous form.

The WBO king has stopped every opponent since turning professional, including a stunning 11th-round finish of Joseph Parker to claim the interim title.

Meanwhile, the challenger had been on a tear prior to his loss against the Ukrainian, having demolished Anthony Joshua in a career-best performance in September 2024.

“With me you’re always guaranteed an all-action fight, but this one is going to be fireworks from the first bell.”

Fabio Wardley

Wardley’s manager, Mike Ofo, believes the pressure will be too much for the challenger.

“This is a huge moment – a massive all-British clash, and I expect Fabio to break Daniel Dubois’ spirit on May 9th.”