Wardley defends title in all-British bout with Dubois

Fabio Wardley will make the first defence of his world heavyweight title against Daniel Dubois in all-British affair on Saturday, 9 May in Manchester.

The 31-year-old was crowned WBO champion in November when Oleksandr Usyk relinquished the belt instead of making a mandatory defence against the Ipswich fighter.

Dubois has previously held the IBF title and his meeting with Wardley at the Co-Op Live Arena pits two rivals who are known for their devastating punching power.

Wardley, who has won 20 of his 21 professional fights, including 19 by way of knockout, said: “I’ve never been in this game to play around. I’m committed to big fights only.

“I’ve always gone looking for the biggest tests, and I’d back myself against anyone in this division.

“This is one of the biggest fights that can be made in the heavyweight division right now and the best part is, it doesn’t need the extra stuff, this fight sells itself.”

Dubois, 28, stopped compatriot Anthony Joshua in September 2024, but his reign as the IBF title holder was ended by Usyk at Wembley in July 2025 – his second defeat at the hands of the Ukrainian.

Promoter Frank Warren said the fight was “another piece of British heavyweight history being made”.

“This is quite simply the most exciting and explosive fight available for Fabio’s first defence of his WBO world title, and it tells you everything about him that this is the fight he demanded,” he added.