Fabio Wardley’s next fight is shaping up to be a straight rematch with Daniel Dubois — and the date now being floated is October 17. Boxing reporter Darshan Desai has flagged the 17th as a possible slot for the WBO heavyweight return, as reported by Boxing News 24, though nothing has been officially announced.
Wardley triggered his contractual right to an immediate rematch after Dubois stopped him in the 11th round of their May 9 war in Manchester. He had dropped Dubois twice early and looked in control before the champion fought his way back, gradually taking over with the cleaner, heavier work until the accumulated punishment forced the stoppage.
What’s next for Fabio Wardley?
An October 17 return would leave Wardley with just over five months to recover from a gruelling defeat and correct the weaknesses Dubois exposed late on — a quick turnaround that has already drawn scepticism. Former two-division champion Paulie Malignaggi has questioned the wisdom of Wardley heading straight back in, arguing that while the Briton has the power to change a fight in an instant, Dubois holds a considerable skill advantage.
Wardley opted for the rematch rather than an interim fight, so he does so without a tune-up to test any adjustments against the man who handed him the first defeat of his professional career.
For now, the date remains unconfirmed. But if the reported October 17 target holds, Wardley will be back in with Dubois sooner than many believe is wise.
