Fabio Wardley has activated the immediate rematch clause in his contract with Daniel Dubois after losing the WBO heavyweight title in Manchester.
Wardley, 31, knocked Dubois down twice in the early rounds at the Co-op Live Arena but was stopped in the 11th round and surrendered the belt. Promoter Frank Warren confirmed to Sky Sports that a rematch clause was in place and has now been enforced. Queensberry said all parties will work toward staging the return bout later in 2026.
Warren called the Manchester fight “the best heavyweight fight I have ever put on.” Both fighters drew praise for their performances, and Dubois publicly commended Wardley after the contest.
Wardley told Sky Sports he will correct the errors that cost him the title: “The boxing world knows my character, and Saturday night proved that without a shred of doubt. It was a fight for the ages, but I made some mistakes that I will rectify in the rematch. Congratulations to Daniel, but I’m coming for you… and my belt!”
The former champion did not require hospital treatment and is recovering from facial injuries sustained in the fight. The announced rematch promises to be another major British heavyweight showdown and is expected to draw significant interest when it is arranged.