Daniel Dubois has vowed to end what he calls the 'lucky' run of Fabio Wardley when the two heavyweights clash at Co-op Live in Manchester on Saturday night. Dubois, seeking to become a two-time world heavyweight champion, aims to take the WBO belt from the undefeated Wardley.
Dubois Confident of Victory
The former IBF champion, who has a record of 22 wins and 3 losses (21 KOs), is determined to bounce back from the third defeat of his professional career. Reflecting on past sparring sessions with Wardley, Dubois stated: 'We were in for good old tear-ups, but I was the one in charge and I’m going to be doing it again. It will be the same story and I’ll be a two-time champion of the world.'
Wardley (20-0-1, 19 KOs) has shown resilience in recent fights, coming from behind to stop Joseph Parker and Justis Huni. However, Dubois believes his opponent has been fortunate. 'He’s been lucky up until now, he’s been lucky. I’m going to be the man to take his O. I’ve done it before and I’m going to do it again,' Dubois asserted.
Preparing for Wardley's Unorthodox Style
Dubois acknowledged Wardley's unorthodox approach but expressed confidence in his game plan. 'I mean, he’s pulled it out of the bag, he’s unorthodox, so are a lot of fighters out there, they’re not used to that and that they do things just out of reactions. It’s different. I’m going to be ready for him. Just work off the jab, pumping that jab and getting into the rhythm. I’m going to have all the answers. Everyone’s got a plan until they get punched in their mouth.'
Overcoming Past Defeats
Dubois has had to reflect deeply after his second loss to Oleksandr Usyk last July at Wembley. The defeat raised questions about his mentality, especially after it emerged that a family party was held on the night of the fight. Dubois dismissed this as a factor. 'That wasn’t a factor. That had nothing to do with that (result) to be honest. That was in the past now anyway, so I’m moving on from that. No, there was nothing to talk about (with Dad Stan). It’s in the past now.'
Chasing Redemption and the WBO Title
Dubois is focused on reclaiming a world title after losing his IBF belt to Usyk. He compared his quest to a personal relationship. 'It’s just one of those things. It’s like a relationship ending and you know how you feel when you end a relationship, but I’m looking to get my girlfriend back,' Dubois said with a smile.
The heavyweight showdown promises to be a thrilling encounter as both fighters seek to assert their dominance in the division.
