Fabio Wardley will be ready for a “shoot-out” with British rival Daniel Dubois, says the WBO heavyweight champion’s trainer Ben Davison.
Wardley will make the first defence of his WBO belt against Dubois when two of Britain’s most explosive heavyweights share the ring in Manchester on May 9.
Dubois has shown his punch power in stoppage wins over Anthony Joshua, Filip Hrgovic and Jarrell Miller, but Wardley has also demonstrated his threat while ruthlessly halting Joseph Parker and Justis Huni.
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Dubois refused to shake Wardley’s hand after they faced off for the first time at the launch press conference ahead of their fight
“I think it’s going to be a shoot-out,” Davison told Sky Sports, when asked about Wardley vs Dubois.
“As Fabio has mentioned, he’s not worried about having a shoot-out. It comes with risk, but he’s aware of that – and he’s not afraid of that. I think that’s what makes Fabio Fabio.
“He’ll be smart in his approach of having that type of fight, capitalising on certain scenarios and moments that favour him, and trying to nullify scenarios that don’t favour him.
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Andy Scott previews Wardley’s title defence against Dubois and expects fans to be in for treat
“We’re well aware it’s probably not a long fight. Fabio Wardley is sports entertainment at its finest.
“We’re excited for that one.”
Wardley’s dramatic victories over Huni and Parker have been recognised by the British Boxing Board of Control which named the unbeaten 31-year-old as its boxer of the year at its awards ceremony on Sunday.
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Wardley reveals his favourite moment of 2025 and his future plans!
“There’s way, way more for me,” Wardley told Sky Sports.
“For me, my head broke through the ceiling 10 fights ago, and all I saw above me was clear skies.
“I was like, ‘Cool, the sky’s the limit, let’s go and let’s keep moving’.
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Wardley suggests Dubois’ front-footed fighting style will be a good match and will suit him when the two meet
“The reason why I picked someone like Daniel Dubois is the ambition of real fights, real opponents, real achievements, and hopefully we have a great fight and I’m back here next year for fighter of the year, or contest of the year.
“I’ve committed to the idea of constantly pushing and challenging myself.”
Watch Dubois-Harper and Scotney-Flores live on Sky Sports on Sunday April 5.
