Daniel Dubois vs Fabio Wardley: Heavyweight world title rematch to take place in London

Daniel Dubois will defend his WBO heavyweight world title against former champion Fabio Wardley in a highly anticipated rematch on 17 October at London’s O2 Arena.

Londoner Dubois, 28, dethroned Wardley with an 11th-round stoppage in a thrilling all-British showdown in Manchester in May to become a two-time world champion.

It was announced during Saturday’s undercard of Moses Itauma’s IBF heavyweight world title fight with Filip Hrgovic, with Dubois and Wardley facing off in the ring.

Dubois said he is predicting a “dominant victory” before adding: “Let’s get it on. It’s just a war.

“When you get in the water, you’re going to get wet. We will see. Give me some of that face-to-face – boy.”

The first meeting lived up to its billing, with two of the division’s biggest punchers producing a dramatic fight that showcased the power of both men.

Wardley dropped Dubois twice early in the contest, but a bloodied Wardley absorbed heavy punishment before the referee stopped the bout.

It was the first defeat of the 31-year-old’s professional career in his 22nd bout.

“It didn’t take long at all [to agree]. The O2 is like a home away from home for me,” Fabio Wardley said on DAZN.

“Looking forward to getting straight back into it. Going to be a rematch and going to be revenge.

“We came into the fight with all the confidence in the world, but adjustments needed to be made.”