Dubois to defend WBO title against Wardley in rematch

Daniel Dubois will defend his WBO heavyweight title against Fabio Wardley in a rematch scheduled for October 17 at London’s O2 Arena, five months after stopping Wardley in the 11th round of their first fight. The outcome of the rematch is not yet known. Dubois won the title in May after recovering from two knockdowns, according to the supplied account of the bout. Wardley, who had not previously lost as a professional, activated a rematch clause. The upcoming contest is scheduled for 12 three-minute rounds, with the WBO belt at stake. Both fighters have described changes they intend to make. Wardley said he needs to adjust during the fight rather than pursue a single plan. Reflecting on the first meeting, he said he had kept moving forward and focused on finishing Dubois, without pausing to reassess. He has also predicted the rematch will end early, while acknowledging either fighter could secure the finish. Dubois has said he feels prepared and believes he has improved since their first encounter. His trainer, Don Charles, says the champion is operating at 80 percent capacity and expects a more clinical performance.