Daniel Dubois makes the first defence of his WBO world title against Fabio Wardley in London on Saturday, five months after their dramatic Manchester rematch. Dubois climbed off the canvas twice to stop Wardley in the 11th round, handing the Ipswich fighter his first professional defeat. With 41 knockouts between them from 43 combined victories, another explosive contest is expected at the O2 Arena.
Barry Jones, former super-featherweight world champion, predicts a repeat result but earlier, stating Dubois might win inside five rounds after Wardley took a severe beating. Ade Oladipo of DAZN favours Dubois for repeat, citing the champion's dominance and Wardley's quick turnaround after absorbing heavy punishment. Johnny Fisher credits Wardley's tenacity but sides with another Dubois victory. Richard Riakporhe slightly favours Wardley, giving him a 60-40 edge due to resilience and work rate.
Liam Gough of BBC Sounds' Punch Perfect expects Dubois to be more aggressive from the opening bell, questioning what Wardley can change. The fight promises to be a pivotal moment for both fighters, with Dubois aiming to cement his status as Britain's top heavyweight and Wardley seeking redemption and a second world title.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing