Heavyweight Rematch Shakes Up Boxing Calendar: Dubois vs. Wardley Set for October Showdown!
Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardley are set for a WBO heavyweight title rematch on October 17 in London, following their 'Fight of the Year' contender in May. Wardley activated his rematch clause, promising revenge after Dubois' 11th-round stoppage victory.A highly anticipated rematch between heavyweight boxers Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardley for the WBO heavyweight title has been officially confirmed for October 17 in London. The announcement was made at the O2 Arena on Saturday, during the build-up to Moses Itauma's heavyweight title bout with Filip Hrgovic, where both fighters faced off for the first time since their initial encounter.
Their first fight in May was hailed as a heavyweight classic and a strong contender for 'Fight of the Year'. In that bout, Dubois (23-3, 22 KOs) secured a victory over Wardley with an 11th-round stoppage, claiming the title and becoming a two-time heavyweight champion. Following the intense first clash, Wardley (20-1-1, 19 KOs) activated his rematch clause, setting the stage for this second act at the O2 later this year.
The May fight saw Dubois overcome significant challenges, surviving two knockdowns in the first and third rounds. He then showcased a classy boxing display, steadily working his way towards a points victory before referee Howard Foster ultimately stopped the fight in the eleventh round. Speaking on DAZN about the upcoming bout, Wardley expressed his readiness: "[Negotiations] didn't take long at all. The O2 is like a home away from home for me." He added, "Looking forward to getting straight back into it. Going to be a rematch and going to be revenge. We came into the fight with all the confidence in the world, but adjustments needed to be made."