Daniel Dubois will defend his WBO world title against Fabio Wardley in a rematch at the O2 Arena in October, following the activation of the rematch clause in their contract. The heavyweights last met in May, when Dubois stopped Wardley in the 11th round at the Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester.
Dubois survives knockdowns to win first bout
In their first encounter, Dubois, fighting for the first time since his second loss to Oleksandr Usyk, was knocked down within 10 seconds by the challenger. He was down again in the third round but recovered to record a 23rd victory of his professional career.
Rematch announced at Itauma fight
The second fight was announced ahead of Moses Itauma's bout against Filip Hrgovic. Itauma, 21, is aiming to become the youngest heavyweight champion since Mike Tyson. Both Dubois and Wardley entered the ring before Itauma's fight to confirm the news.
Wardley said: "It didn't take long at all. The O2 is like a home away from home for me. I’m looking forward to getting straight back into it. It’s 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."
Dubois responded: "Another dominant victory. Amazing performance. I can't wait. Let's get it on. It's just a war. When you get in the water, you're going to get wet. We will see. Give me some of that face to face, boy."
