Daniel Dubois’s Next Move: Assessing the Contenders After Epic Wardley Victory

Daniel Dubois climbed off the canvas twice to stop Fabio Wardley in the 11th round at Manchester’s Co‑op Live Arena, reclaiming the WBO heavyweight title in a brutal war. Now, attention immediately turns to who the 23-3 (22 KOs) champion will face next. An immediate rematch with Wardley is unlikely despite a clause in the contract. Promoter Frank Warren told talkSPORT, “I don’t think it’s going to happen any time soon” following the punishing nature of the contest. Instead, the front-runner appears to be rising star Moses Itauma. The 14-0 (12 KOs) prospect is now the WBO’s No. 1 contender and has been described as Dubois’ mandatory challenger. A clash between the young powerhouses would undoubtedly capture the public’s imagination. Other names are also circling. Hard-hitting Martin Bakole must first overcome Efe Ajagba in an IBF eliminator before he can stake a mandatory claim, though his trainer insists he would “destroy” Dubois. WBC Interim champion Agit Kabayel sat ringside and openly called for a unification, with Warren admitting it could be “easy to make” if Oleksandr Usyk vacates. Usyk, who has twice beaten Dubois conclusively, holds little appeal for a trilogy. Meanwhile, former cruiserweight Richard Riakporhe, now the British heavyweight champion, has openly targeted the Wardley-Dubois winner. 📸 Photo credit: The Ring Magazine Facebook Who do you want to see daniel dubois fight next? 🤔

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