Dubois overcomes two knockdowns to stop Wardley in 11th, claim WBO heavyweight title

Context The bout took place at the Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester on Saturday. Dubois entered as a former IBF champion after the belt was vacated by Oleksandr Usyk in 2024. Wardley had been promoted to WBO champion the previous November after Usyk vacated the title and was making his first defense.

The fight began explosively, with Wardley dropping Dubois with a right hook within the first ten seconds. Dubois rose, survived a second knockdown later in the bout, and began to press forward as the fight progressed.

Key Facts Dubois survived both knockdowns and unleashed a sustained attack that left Wardley bleeding heavily from the bridge of the nose with his right eye nearly closed. Referee Howard Foster halted the contest at the start of the 11th round.

After the stoppage, Dubois called the encounter a war and thanked Wardley for the challenge. The victory pushed Dubois’s professional record to 23 wins and 3 losses, while Wardley’s record moved to 20 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw.

What It Means Promoter Frank Warren, who manages both fighters, described the bout as the best heavyweight fight he has ever promoted and confirmed a rematch clause exists in the contract. The result gives Dubois a second world heavyweight title in his career.

Wardley showed considerable heart, absorbing significant punishment before the stoppage, and his first professional loss raises questions about his future trajectory in the division.

Looking ahead, Dubois will likely consider his next mandatory defense or a potential rematch with Wardley, while Wardley may seek a tune‑up fight to rebuild momentum.

The next development to watch is whether Dubois accepts an immediate rematch or pursues a unification bout with another title holder.