WBO heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley is in discussions over a potential all-British showdown with former world titlist Daniel Dubois, according to reports confirmed by Sky Sports.
Following his dramatic victory over Joseph Parker last October, Wardley initially hoped to secure a shot at Usyk. Instead, the Ipswich puncher now finds himself looking for a marquee opponent to launch his reign, and Dubois fits the profile. The 28-year-old Dubois won the IBF title in similar circumstances before losing it to Usyk in July and has not fought since, though he remains one of the division’s most dangerous punchers.
Queensberry boss Frank Warren confirmed talks are ongoing with both fighters. “We’re talking to Fabio about various things and also to Daniel,” Warren told Sky Sports. “Whatever happens they’ve both got to fight, they both want to fight, and they will fight.” Whether those plans align into a direct collision, however, remains unresolved.
Wardley had previously explored a bout with Derek Chisora, but the veteran instead opted to face Deontay Wilder in April. Other names linked with Wardley include Filip Hrgovic and Zhilei Zhang, both of whom are highly ranked by the WBO and would offer stern tests for a first defense.
Meanwhile, another Queensberry heavyweight, Agit Kabayel, is expected to defend his WBC interim title against a “British opponent” in April or May, potentially in Germany. Dubois’ advisor Sam Jones has already voiced interest in that matchup, noting, “Daniel wants to fight Kabayel… Daniel Dubois against Kabayel is not going to points.” With multiple British heavyweights circling major bouts, the coming months could prove pivotal for the division.
Image Credit: Sky Sports