Oleksandr Usyk has expressed surprise that Fabio Wardley failed to utilise his jab effectively during his heavyweight clash with Daniel Dubois earlier this month. The Ukrainian two-division undisputed champion offered his analysis of the domestic showdown, which saw Dubois secure a brutal stoppage victory over Wardley in the penultimate round.
Fight Recap
The two British heavyweights met in a blockbuster contest at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester. Wardley, defending his WBO world title for the first time, started strongly, knocking Dubois down within the opening seconds. He sent his opponent to the canvas again in the third round, appearing to take control of the bout.
However, the momentum shifted after the second knockdown. Dubois began to assert his dominance, picking apart the Suffolk-born fighter before stopping a bloodied Wardley in the tenth round. The defeat marked Wardley's first professional loss, ending his undefeated record.
Usyk's Verdict
Speaking to DAZN, Usyk offered his assessment of the contest. The former undisputed cruiserweight and heavyweight champion praised both fighters for their efforts but questioned Wardley's tactical approach. "It's a street fight. Congratulations Dubois, good job, new world champion, but Fabio, where is jab? Fabio, where? [He] never jabbed. Maybe once. Only right hand, only right hand. It's not working. Very strong chin but I think this is a street fight, it's a problem for both guys for [the] brain and health," Usyk said.
Usyk's comments highlight a key area where Wardley may need to improve ahead of a potential rematch. The Ukrainian's own success has been built on exceptional footwork and a sharp jab, making his critique particularly pointed.
Rematch Confirmed
Following the defeat, Wardley has activated the rematch clause in his contract, as confirmed by Queensberry Promotions. Frank Warren, the promoter, revealed to Sky Sports that the clause was inserted into the fighters' agreements, and Wardley has opted to exercise it immediately.
In a statement, Wardley said: "The boxing world knows my character, and Saturday night proved that without a shred of doubt. It was a fight for the ages, but I made some mistakes that I will rectify in the rematch. Congratulations to Daniel, but I'm coming for you… and my belt!"
Queensberry issued an official statement: "Queensberry can confirm that Fabio Wardley has activated the rematch clause following his defeat in last week's WBO world title fight against Daniel Dubois at the Co-op Live in Manchester. All parties will now work towards a rematch of their fight of the year contender for later in 2026."
Timeline for Rematch
The second meeting between the pair is expected to take place later this year, possibly before December. Warren indicated that Dubois will take some time away from the ring before returning to action. "As for Daniel's next fight, a fight in the autumn," Warren told DAZN. "Autumn finishes in November. So we'll see what happens. He needs a rest."
Wardley will hope to implement Usyk's advice on the jab when he steps into the ring with Dubois again, seeking to reclaim his title and avenge his first professional defeat.
