Daniel Dubois Knockouts Out Wardley In Thriller

In a pulsating all-British heavyweight showdown billed as “Don’t Blink,” Daniel Dubois (now 23-2, 22 KOs) rose from the canvas twice to dethrone defending WBO champion Fabio Wardley with a dramatic 11th-round stoppage. The fight, widely hailed as a leading candidate for 2026 Fight of the Year, delivered raw intensity, resilience, and late drama that electrified a packed crowd.

The Main Event: A True War

Wardley, the Ipswich powerhouse making his second title defense, started explosively. He dropped Dubois with a heavy right hand just 10 seconds into the opening round and again in round three, appearing in control early.

Dubois, showing remarkable heart and championship pedigree, climbed off the floor both times. He steadily turned the tide with superior power punching, body work, and volume. By the later rounds, Wardley’s face was badly swollen (particularly his right eye), and he absorbed significant punishment while refusing to go down.

In round 11, Dubois unleashed a sustained barrage. Referee Howard Foster stepped in at the 0:28 mark to halt the contest, sparing the badly hurt Wardley further damage. Dubois became a two-time WBO heavyweight champion at age 28.

Post-fight, Dubois displayed sportsmanship by consoling his opponent. Wardley, despite the defeat, earned praise as a warrior who never touched the canvas. Promoter Frank Warren called it one of the best heavyweight fights he had ever staged.

Key Undercard Results

The supporting bouts featured strong performances and notable names:

• Jack Rafferty def. Ekow Essuman by sixth-round TKO (corner stoppage/RTD) — Welterweight/Super Lightweight title fight. Rafferty dominated and forced the retirement.

• Bradley Rea def. Liam Cameron by fourth-round TKO — Light Heavyweight. A highlight-reel finish.

• Zak Chelli def. David Morrell by ninth-round TKO — Light Heavyweight. Chelli upset the former world champion in a strong showing.

• Gavin Gwynne def. Khaleel Majid by majority decision — Super Lightweight.

• Bakhodir Jalolov def. Agron Smakici by seventh-round TKO/RTD — Heavyweight. The Olympic silver medalist looked impressive.