Daniel Dubois became the WBO world heavyweight champion after stopping Fabio Wardley in the 11th round of a dramatic and blood-soaked contest in Manchester. The fight, described as one of the most remarkable heavyweight battles of all time, saw Dubois recover from two early knockdowns to secure victory.
Wardley was left with a badly cut and broken nose, his face covered in blood, prompting referee Howard Foster to step in 28 seconds into the penultimate round. The stoppage was merciful, as Wardley had been examined twice by the ringside doctor before the final round.
Dubois, who was knocked down in the first 10 seconds of the fight and again in the third round, dominated the rounds in which he wasn't floored. Promoter Frank Warren called it the best heavyweight fight he had ever put on, praising both men as 'brave, gutsy warriors'.
The victory shakes up Britain's heavyweight scene, with Dubois now ranked second behind Tyson Fury, followed by Wardley, Moses Itauma, and Anthony Joshua. Dubois, gracious in victory, said: 'That was a war, thank you Fabio. I know I've got heart – I'm a warrior.'
