In a thrilling potential matchup that has boxing fans buzzing, Fabio Wardley's team is currently in discussions regarding a significant all-British heavyweight clash against Daniel Dubois for 2026. This would mark a notable title defense for Wardley, who holds the WBO world heavyweight championship and is exploring various contenders for his inaugural title fight.
Ranked fourth by the WBO, Dubois is one of the frontrunners on Wardley’s shortlist of possible opponents, alongside other formidable fighters like Filip Hrgovic and Zhilei Zhang, both of whom are also ranked within the WBO's top 15. Interestingly, negotiations for a fight between Wardley and fellow Brit Derek Chisora did not yield positive results, leaving the door open for Dubois.
Wardley has expressed his eagerness for a summer showdown with Tyson Fury, underscoring his ambition to take on the best in the division. His manager, Mike Ofo, shared insights with Sky Sports about Wardley’s aspirations, stating, "Fabio was keen on challenging Oleksandr Usyk after his victory over Joseph Parker, but Usyk opted for a different path by pursuing Deontay Wilder. With that fight now seemingly off the table, Fabio is eager for a unification bout with Usyk to claim all the titles."
Ofo elaborated, saying, "We had been negotiating a match with Chisora or Wilder for April 4, but it appears they have decided to stick together instead, as evidenced by their recent press conference antics. Boxing is undeniably tough, so I genuinely wish them all the best moving forward. As for Daniel Dubois, that's a contest Fabio is very enthusiastic about. An all-British battle for the world heavyweight title is incredibly exciting!"
When asked about the possibility of a fight between Wardley and Dubois, promoter Frank Warren confirmed to Sky Sports, "We’re having conversations with both Fabio and Daniel regarding various opportunities. Regardless of the specifics, they each want to fight, and they will take to the ring. It's likely we could see them face off towards the end of April or early May."
Wardley ascended to the position of WBO champion after Oleksandr Usyk relinquished the title rather than defend it against the undefeated boxer from Ipswich. Prior to this, Wardley had made a significant mark by becoming the WBO interim champion through a dramatic 11th-round stoppage win over Joseph Parker at The O2 in October.
Meanwhile, Dubois is making strides to revive his career following a knockout defeat to Usyk in their rematch last July at Wembley Stadium, notably returning to his former trainer Don Charles in hopes of regaining his competitive edge.
As these discussions unfold, opinions may vary on the outcome and implications of such matchups. Will Wardley successfully defend his title against Dubois? What do you think of the potential clash between these two British heavyweights? Share your thoughts!
