Fabio Wardley will defend his WBO heavyweight title against Daniel Dubois in an all-British clash on Saturday, May 9. The fight takes place at The Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester.
Wardley became the WBO champion in November. This happened after Oleksandr Usyk decided to give up the belt rather than face the mandatory challenge from the Ipswich fighter. This will be the first time Wardley puts his title on the line.
The unbeaten 31-year-old said he wanted a big test. “I’ve never been in this game to mess around or play small. Big fights only!” Wardley said. “I’m the champion, this is a voluntary defence. I picked him.”
Wardley made it clear he is not avoiding tough opponents. “One thing you can’t say about me is that I’ve ever shied away from a challenge,” he said. “I’ve always continuously picked the biggest challenges out there. I’m not scared of any man in this division.”
Both fighters are known for their power. All of Wardley’s wins have come by knockout since he turned professional. He has built a strong reputation with recent victories. He stopped Frazer Clarke in the first round of their rematch in October 2024. He also scored a knockout win over Justis Huni and stopped Joseph Parker in the 11th round to claim the WBO interim title.
For Dubois, this fight is a chance to become a world champion again. He previously held the IBF title but lost it when Usyk beat him in their rematch last July. Since that loss, Dubois has reunited with trainer Don Charles to prepare for this fight.
Before facing Usyk, Dubois was on a strong run. He defeated Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic. He also delivered a career-best knockout win over Anthony Joshua in September 2024.
Tyson Fury has said he would be open to fighting Wardley for the world title later this year. But first, Wardley must deal with the challenge in front of him.