Daniel Dubois fears Fabio Wardley is “gambling with his life” ahead of brutal WBO heavyweight title rematch

Daniel Dubois has expressed serious concerns about Fabio Wardley’s health ahead of their highly anticipated heavyweight rematch. The British boxer believes his rival is taking a major risk by stepping into the ring again after their brutal first encounter in May. Dubois stopped Wardley in the 11th round after surviving two knockdowns in a thrilling contest in Manchester.The rematch will see Dubois defend his WBO heavyweight title against Wardley, who is determined to reclaim the championship. However, Dubois believes the physical cost of boxing is a serious concern and fears another punishing fight could have lasting consequences for his opponent.Daniel Dubois warns Fabio Wardley about the risks of their rematchSpeaking on In Camp With, Daniel Dubois explained that he understands why Fabio Wardley accepted the rematch despite the punishment he suffered in their previous meeting.“He has no choice. He probably thinks he has nowhere else to go. It’s a world title fight and he wants to make money- like us all. He was never going to turn it down. He’s going to take another gamble. Fabio is gambling with his health, his life, like we all do. We are prize fighters. This is a sport, but it’s a blood sport”, he said per The Sun.Dubois’ comments reflect the dangers both men face as they prepare to fight again. The two heavyweights have developed powerful reputations, but their first meeting showed how quickly a fight can become dangerous.Wardley made a stunning start in their May contest. He landed a trademark looping right hand just nine seconds into the fight, catching Dubois around the temple. Another powerful right hand in the third round sent the champion to the canvas again.However, Dubois recovered and gradually took control of the contest. His trainer, Don Charles, reportedly gave him a slap around the chops before the fifth round to help him regain his focus.The fight then turned increasingly difficult for Wardley. Dubois landed repeated heavy punches, leaving his opponent with a badly damaged right eye and a bloodied, injured nose. The referee eventually stopped the contest in the 11th round.Dubois believes the damage sustained in such contests can have lasting effects on fighters. He explained that every fight takes something away from a boxer, regardless of the result.“Every fight changes you. Every fight takes a bit out of you. Every time you get in that ring, it takes a little bit out of you. I have to build up this amount of energy and intensity so that I’m just a monster in there. Boxing is a unique sport - it’s not even really a sport”, he said.Despite his concerns, Dubois understands that he must approach the rematch as a professional. He also made it clear that he cannot hold back if Wardley and his team are prepared to continue.The rivals first met in 2017, when they sparred at the Peacock Gym in Canning Town. Since then, both have built successful careers and competed for world titles.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.