Dubois, Wardley Set for WBO Title Rematch

Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardley are set to rematch for Dubois’ WBO heavyweight title at London’s O2 Arena, five months after Dubois rallied from two knockdowns to stop Wardley in the 11th round and win the belt. At the weigh-in, Dubois was 253.9 pounds and Wardley 248.3, both heavier than before their first fight. Wardley says he plans to fight with more control and tactical discipline after being overly aggressive, though he is willing to trade punches; Dubois says he feels stronger and is ready for another battle. Wardley’s team has accused Dubois of head-leading and taking a knee to recover and has called for a stronger referee, but Dubois’ trainer rejected the claims and the British Boxing Board of Control said the referee would treat both fighters fairly. The rematch has raised concerns about the damage Wardley sustained in the first bout, though he denies suffering serious physical injury and says he is ready to fight; Dubois has also welcomed the possibility of facing Tyson Fury or Anthony Joshua afterward.