Wardley claimed interim status with a stoppage of Joseph Parker in October 2025 and was later appointed full WBO champion. He progressed through the division by pushing forward, ripping short hooks close and riding the straight right through the guard. At 31, he credits his conditioning and his willingness to stand his ground when the going gets tough.
Asked about holding on to a world title, Wardley said: “I’m immensely proud of myself that I was able to achieve that and pull it off, but it’s not just me. It’s the team around me that support me with their faith and belief.”
The sharper comments came when Dubois’ name was brought up.
“I rate Daniel highly and that’s why I chose him as an opponent. I want to be remembered as a fighter who never shied away from anyone or shirked a challenge. My strength is proven, first round, last round. Our records prove that when the going gets tough, he’s not game for it, so we’re really going to see tonight who really has what it takes.”
Wardley questions how Dubois holds up when he has to stand and deal and find his balance after taking a clean shot. At heavyweight, it gets exposed as soon as a solid jab lands and a straight right lands behind it.
Dubois, a former IBF belt holder, brings his own power. He operates behind a heavy punch and drives straight when he plants his feet. When he puts his shots in combination, he has the power to grind down opponents and force a stoppage.
He left no room for doubt.
“I need challenges where I’m at in my career, I need the big names, the big fights. I’m going to be ready for this more than ever. It’s exciting. I see a need to win by knockout, win by any means. It’s called ‘Don’t Blink’ for a reason.”
Date: 9 May
Start time: 19:00 UK / 14:00 ET
Streaming platform: DAZN
Venue: Co-op Live, Manchester
Upcoming Fights Live on DAZN:
Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois; May 9, Manchester
Sugar Nunez vs. Emanuel Navarette; February 28, Phoenix
Mitchell vs. Rosado; light heavyweight, March 7, Derby
James Dickens vs Anthony Cacace, March 14, Dublin
George Liddard vs. Tyler Denny; March 21, London
Moses Itauma vs. Jermaine Franklin Jr.; March 28, Manchester
Derek Chisora ​​vs. Deontay Wilder; April 4, London
