Daniel DuboisPlayer·Daniel Dubois claimed the WBO heavyweightCompetition·WBO Heavyweight title with a commanding stoppage of Fabio WardleyPlayer·Fabio Wardley in the 11th round at Manchester's Co-op LiveVenue·Co-op Live arena on Saturday night. The victory capped a thrilling encounter marked by two knockdowns survived by Dubois, underscoring his resilience in securing the belt against the 31-year-old champion.
Promoter Frank WarrenCoach·Frank Warren, speaking post-fight, confirmed the contract includes a rematch clause for Wardley, positioning it as the frontrunner given the bout's intensity. Yet Warren floated an intriguing alternative: a domestic showdown with Moses ItaumaPlayer·Moses Itauma, the 21-year-old WBO number one who watched from ringside.
Itauma's next appearance comes on August 8 at London's O2 ArenaVenue·O2 Arena, setting the stage for a potential generational clash should paths align. This matchup promises another all-British heavyweight spectacle, pitting Dubois' newfound championship pedigree against Itauma's rapid ascent.
"There is a rematch clause, so we'll see what happens," Warren stated. "We'll see how things develop over the next few months with all these different heavyweight fights coming up. That will dictate what happens. Itauma is very possible, but there are many different fights and options. We're not making a final decision tonight, so let Daniel rest and enjoy the win. As I said, the contract has a rematch clause."
Warren highlighted the division's depth, referencing recent bouts like Agit KabayelPlayer·Agit Kabayel's in Germany and Itauma's performances. "This is a huge fight. They're all huge fights. All these heavyweight battles are huge, right? The heavyweight division is so strong right now; there are so many good matchups, and we make them happen. The fighters want to fight each other. That's why they sign with Queensberry, to help us make these fights."
The landscape remains fluid. On May 23, IBF, WBA, and WBC champion Oleksandr UsykPlayer·Oleksandr Usyk defends against kickboxing convert Rico VerhoevenPlayer·Rico Verhoeven. Anthony JoshuaPlayer·Anthony Joshua faces little-known Christian PrengaPlayer·Christian Prenga on July 25, with Tyson FuryPlayer·Tyson Fury expected in action before a anticipated Fury-Joshua collision later in 2026.
Dubois' triumph elevates him amid this crowded field, where strategic matchmaking will shape contenders. A Wardley rematch tests unfinished business, while Itauma offers a fresh rivalry blending youth and experience. Warren's measured approach signals patience, allowing recovery and market dynamics to guide the next chapter in British heavyweight dominance.
Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois at their final press conference at Wembley Stadium. Credit: Avalon.red/IMAGO
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