Frank Warren Issues Stern Warning to Daniel Dubois Over Pre-Fight Conduct
Promoter Frank Warren has delivered a clear directive to heavyweight boxer Daniel Dubois, stating emphatically that the pre-fight party which overshadowed his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk last summer must not be repeated before his upcoming world title bout against Fabio Wardley.
The Controversial Gathering Before Usyk Defeat
A video that circulated widely showed Dubois attending a gathering organised by his father on the eve of his undisputed title fight against Oleksandr Usyk in July. The British fighter subsequently suffered a fifth-round knockout loss at Wembley Stadium, with questions immediately arising about his preparation and focus.
The emergence of the footage shifted the narrative surrounding the fight, moving attention away from Usyk's considerable talents and toward Dubois' questionable pre-fight activities. It was suggested that the party may have contributed to Dubois arriving at the stadium just ninety minutes before his scheduled ringwalk, creating significant logistical pressure.
Warren's Firm Stance on Future Conduct
"That can't happen again," Warren told Sky Sports in unequivocal terms. "The good thing is they'll be in Manchester so they'll be staying in a hotel."
The promoter revealed his frustration at the time, recalling: "When he was late getting there, I was tearing my hair out, what I've got left. I can't be arguing with everyone when he's two hours away from the biggest fight ever."
Warren confirmed that serious conversations took place following the Usyk defeat, with all parties agreeing that such a scenario must not recur when Dubois faces Wardley for the WBO world heavyweight championship on May 9th.
Dubois' Coaching Situation and Mindset
Dubois, who has downplayed the significance of the party incident, has recently reunited with coach Don Charles after a brief period working with trainer Tony Sims. The 28-year-old fighter believes this rekindled partnership places him in a strong position ahead of the Wardley contest.
"He's in a good place at the moment," Warren observed about his fighter. "Leaving Don and then going back has been good for him - that he's been elsewhere and seen he's more comfortable with Don."
The promoter acknowledged that "there's been a lot of stuff happening behind the scenes for that fight which has been well documented," referring to the various controversies surrounding Dubois' preparation and performance against Usyk.
Looking Ahead to the Wardley Challenge
Dubois enters the fight against undefeated Wardley following a high-profile loss, but believes his opponent may be underestimating him as a result. The British heavyweight remains determined to reclaim his position at the top of the division, with Warren suggesting a potential return to Wembley against Tyson Fury could materialise if Dubois emerges victorious against the Ipswich-born contender.
While Dubois' coach Don Charles initially played down the significance of the pre-fight gathering before the Usyk bout, Warren's comments indicate the promotional team has taken a much firmer stance regarding preparation protocols moving forward.
