Fabio Wardley activates rematch clause, looks to fight Daniel Dubois once more

Fabio Wardley (20-1-1, 19 KOs) has confirmed that he will activate his Daniel Dubois (23-3, 22 KOs) rematch clause.

The former WBO heavyweight world champion announced the decision to Sky Sports on Friday. Frank Warren, who promoted the clash between Wardley and Dubois, also confirmed to Sky Sports that there is a rematch clause. The rematch is expected to take place later this year.

“The boxing world knows my character, and Saturday night proved that without a shred of doubt,” said Wardley to Sky Sports. “It was a fight for the ages, but I made some mistakes that I will rectify in the rematch. Congratulations to Daniel, but I’m coming for you and my belt!”

Fabio Wardley looks to rematch Daniel Dubois later this year

The first fight between the pair proved to be a violent affair. Wardley scored a knockdown with an overhand right just seconds after the fight began. He dropped Dubois once more in round three with another overhand right. Unfortunately for Wardley, things just went downhill from there.

Dubois put a beating on his opponent. Wardley was never knocked down, but his nose was bloodied and there was significant swelling on his right eye. Less than 30 seconds after round 11 began, referee Howard Foster stepped in to put an end to proceedings.

“It was a war,” said Dubois in his post-fight interview in the ring. “We come through the sticky moments. It was a war. Thank you, Fabio, for that. Thank you.”

“[Wardley’s] a durable guy. He’s a durable fighter. A great warrior. I thank you for a great fight, man. It was an honour to be in the ring with him.”

According to Sky Sports, Wardley did not require hospital treatment and is recovering from facial injuries caused during the fight. It remains unknown just how long it would take for him to make a full recovery. Once Wardley does recover, however, he can be expected to take on Dubois once again.