Fabio Wardley’s team is unhappy with the officials of the referee Howard Foster after Saturday night’s brutal loss to Daniel Dubois in Manchester.
Wardley dropped Dubois twice during the early rounds of their WBO heavyweight title fight before finally being stopped in the 11th after absorbing sustained punishment during one of the year’s most violent heavyweight fights.
According to Sky SportsWardley’s side believes Foster failed to properly address repeated violations by Dubois during the fight, including head collisions and other illegal shots that they feel contributed to the heavy facial damage Wardley suffered. Wardley left the fight badly swollen and bloodied before later receiving stitches and hospital treatment following the strike.
Wardley’s team also reportedly wants an explanation as to why Foster separated the fighters late in the seventh round, just as Dubois was hurt during an exchange near the ropes.
The controversy added another layer to the aftermath of the fight, which had already sparked debate over whether Wardley’s corner should have stopped the bout earlier as Dubois gradually took over behind his jab and heavier punches.
Despite the first defeat of his professional career, Wardley still has the option of forcing a second fight. Promoter Frank Warren confirmed that Wardley has a rematch clause in the contract.
“It’s up to them. It’s up to the fighters,” Warren said of a possible rematch.
“I would, but I’d like to see them before they do that, having a good rest, recharging their batteries and everything.”
A second fight is likely to generate huge interest after the dramatic momentum swings and heavy punishment that both fighters absorbed during Saturday’s bout.
Wardley’s facial swelling became increasingly noticeable during the middle rounds as repeated close-range collisions continued, although no points deductions or formal warnings were issued against Dubois during the fight by Foster.
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Last updated on 2026/05/11 at 11:19


