Wardley (20-0-1, 19 KOs) earned full champion status when he stopped Joseph Parker and now heads to Manchester’s Co-op Live on May 9 with the belt around his waist and a seasoned puncher across from him. Dubois has already walked into championship fights, felt the pace and taken the punishment. He understands what twelve hard rounds demand.
Wardley must start with the jab, hold center ring, and keep his feet under him when he lets combinations go. Dubois does his best work when he steps into mid-range and lets his hands go once he’s set, punching straight through the guard.
“I’m committed to big fights only. I’m the champion, this is a voluntary defence, and I chose this. I’m not about to win a world title and then take easy fights or hide away with it. One thing you can’t ever say about me is I’ve shied away from a challenge. I’ve always gone looking for the biggest tests, and I’d back myself against anyone in this division,” said Wardley
Wardley’s path has been built on self-belief and steady improvement. He did not look past Parker and he will not look past this. His promoter Frank Warren said it clearly: “This is another piece of British heavyweight history being made.” The talk matches the fight on paper, though the ring delivers the final word once the bell sounds.
Dubois approaches with fewer words. “On the 9th May the world title reign is over for Fabio, and I will become champion again. Let’s go.” That is the tone of a heavyweight who believes he has already seen this level and knows what is to come.
Heavyweight belts gain respect when the champion fights a live challenger.
Expect early pressure from both. Expect exchanges once the range is established. If Wardley controls the pace and corners Dubois, he can bank rounds. If Dubois plants his feet and forces exchanges, the temperature rises quickly.
On May 9, one man’s belt will feel secure. The other will leave knowing exactly where he stands.
When two heavyweights trust their power, the fight can flip in a second.
Event Info
Date: May 9
Start time: 7 p.m. UK / 1 pm ET
Streaming platform: DAZN
Venue: Co-op Live, Manchester
Main event: Fabio Wardley vs. Daniel Dubois, for the WBO heavyweight title
How to watch: Available on DAZN
