Dubois claims WBO heavyweight title after surviving early knockdowns against Wardley
Dubois becomes a two-time world champion as referee stops the bout after Wardley struggles to defend himself
Daniel Dubois has secured the WBO heavyweight title by defeating Fabio Wardley in a heavyweight bout held in London. The contest, billed as an all-time classic, saw Dubois survive two knockdowns in the opening round and a third knockdown in the third round before regaining control.
Despite sustaining significant facial damage, including a damaged nose and a swollen eye, Dubois continued to land heavy shots on the bloodied Wardley. The referee halted the fight in the 11th round after Dubois, who was 28 at the time, maintained dominance over his opponent.
Dubois emerged as a two-time world champion in his 23rd professional victory. Wardley, 31, suffered his first defeat in 22 fights, ending a fairy-tale ascent from the unlicensed white-collar circuit. Promoter Frank Warren has confirmed that a rematch clause exists for a future bout.
The fight lived up to its don't blink tagline due to the stacked knockout power of both fighters. Dubois, from Ipswich, reasserted himself at the top of the heavyweight division after previously silencing critics with a clinical display of power. Wardley sank to his knees as Dubois celebrated capturing the title.
While the specific outcome of the rematch clause regarding a date or opponent has not been announced, the institutional record now reflects Dubois's status as a dual champion. The long-term health implications of the severe facial injuries sustained by Dubois remain unclear, though he fought effectively throughout the later stages of the contest.
