Fabio Wardley has officially activated the rematch clause, setting the stage for a second showdown with WBO heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois. The move comes after a thrilling, back-and-forth battle that saw Dubois survive two early knockdowns to stop Wardley in the 11th round in Manchester on Saturday.

Both fighters are under the Queensberry banner, and promoter Frank Warren confirmed the rematch clause immediately after the bout. "The boxing world knows my character, and Saturday night proved that without a shred of doubt," Wardley told Sky Sports. "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."

Wardley, who rose from the white-collar boxing scene to world champion in just 10 years, suffered his first professional loss in dramatic fashion. The 31-year-old had early success against Dubois, but a badly damaged nose and heavily swollen eye forced the referee to step in and stop the fight. Despite the setback, Wardley's resilience has earned him respect across the boxing world.

Warren, a veteran promoter with 45 years in the sport, called the fight "the best heavyweight contest" he has ever promoted. The bout was a classic tale of two halves, with Wardley's early aggression giving way to Dubois's relentless pressure and power.

For Dubois, the victory marked a triumphant return to the top of boxing's glamour division. The 28-year-old became a two-time heavyweight champion, having previously held the IBF title before losing it to Oleksandr Usyk in July 2025. Dubois now boasts 23 wins in 26 professional fights, with his only losses coming twice to Usyk and once to Joe Joyce.

As the rematch looms, fans can expect another epic clash between two fighters who left everything in the ring. For now, the heavyweight division buzzes with anticipation as Wardley looks to reclaim his belt and Dubois aims to cement his legacy.