Fabio Wardley celebrates victory by way of TKO during the Heavyweight fight between Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley on the "All or Nothing" Fight Night at The O2 Arena on October 25, 2025 in London, England

Fabio Wardley will have Oleksandr Usyk's advice in mind when he rematches Daniel Dubois next month.

Wardley can exact revenge and reclaim the WBO heavyweight title when he faces Dubois at London's O2 Arena on October 17.

A graphic of Oleksandr Usyk alongside Daniel Dubois vs Fabio Wardley
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Usyk said Wardley didn't use his jab enough during his defeat to Dubois in MayCredit: Getty

The Ipswich man, who was crowned WBO heavyweight champion in June 2025 when Usyk vacated the title, dropped his belt to Dubois in a thrilling Manchester battle four months ago.

Despite dropping Dubois twice in the first three rounds, Wardley succumbed to his fellow British heavyweight's ruthless onslaught and the fight was stopped in round 11.

His performance in the later rounds drew slight criticism from fans and from Usyk, who urged Wardley to use his jab more.

"Fabio, where is your jab? You never jab. Only right hand," Usyk said.

Due to his white-collar background, Wardley has been questioned about his technical ability for years.

However, he has always found a balance with his raw athleticism, heart and an almighty chin.

Wardley responds to Usyk

But speaking to DAZN Boxing, Wardley said he will take Usyk's advice on board when he dukes it out with Dubois for the second time.

“With all [Usyk's] done and all he’s achieved with his background, you can’t dismiss what he’s saying," Wardley said.

"But also I’m not him. I haven’t had the schooling he’s had, the background he’s had, the timing that he’s had.

"Mr Usyk, I’m working on my jab. I promise. I will try and do better for you."

A graphic of Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois
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Wardley faces an almighty task to reclaim the WBO heavyweight title against Dubois on October 17Credit: Getty

Before Moses Itauma's shock defeat to Filip Hrgovic late last month, Wardley had the chance to face off with Dubois for the first time ahead of his rematch.

He recognises adjustments must be made if he is to get a win over Dubois.

"It didn’t take long," he said, explaining his decision to trigger the rematch clause.

"The O2 is like a home away from home for me. I’m looking forward to getting back to it. It’s going to be revenge."

"Adjustments need to be made — I have done it before against Frazer Clarke.

"I’ve proven I can change."


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Dubois added: "I’m going for a dominant victory — I can’t wait. Let’s get it on. 

"When you get in the water, you are going to get wet — I love it."

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