The Daniel Dubois vs. Fabio Wardley heavyweight fight at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena on May 9 was one of the most brutal boxing matches of 2026. Daniel Dubois went to the canvas twice before stopping Fabio Wardley in the 11th round to win back the WBO world heavyweight title and become a two-time champion.
The fight featured constant exchanges, heavy punches and dramatic momentum shifts that kept fans engaged from start to finish. After the fight, unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk shared his honest reaction during an interview with DAZN Boxing.
While Usyk praised Dubois for the victory, he also questioned Wardley’s tactics and raised concerns about the damage both fighters suffered during the intense heavyweight battle. His comments soon became one of the biggest talking points in boxing.
Oleksandr Usyk Criticizes Fabio Wardley’s Tactics in Daniel Dubois Fight
Oleksandr Usyk focused heavily on Fabio Wardley’s lack of basic boxing technique during the Daniel Dubois fight. Speaking to DAZN Boxing, Usyk questioned why Wardley failed to use his jab throughout the contest.
“This is a street fight. Congratulations Dubois, good job, new world champion, but Fabio, where’s the jab? Fabio, where?. [He] Never stabbed. maybe once. Only the right hand, only the right hand. Not working. Very strong chin but I think this is a street fight, it’s a problem for both guys [the] Brain and Health.”
Wardley enters the fight with strong momentum after defending the WBO titles against Justice Hauni and Joseph Parker in 2025. Many expected him to control the fight against Dubois. Instead, Wardley relied primarily on power punches and aggressive exchanges.
Dubois handled the pressure and gradually turned the fight around with body shots and forward movement. As the round continued, Wardley endured more punishment while his offense became less effective.
Daniel Dubois revives heavyweight boxing career after brutal victory over Fabio Wardley
Daniel Dubois’ victory marked another big moment in his return to heavyweight boxing. Dubois had faced criticism after previous losses, including to Oleksandr Usyk. However, the British heavyweight showed toughness and grit against Wardley.
Dubois survived two knockdowns before taking control in the later rounds. His pressure and conditioning ultimately overwhelmed Wardley in the 11th round.
The result also changed the immediate future of the heavyweight division. Usyk has previously expressed interest in fighting the winner as he continues his pursuit of another undisputed heavyweight championship run. That plan will now be put on hold as Wardley has activated the rematch clause in his contract.
Promoters are already discussing a second Daniel Dubois vs. Fabio Wardley fight after the first bout received praise from fans and the boxing media.
Oleksandr Usyk warned about health risks after heavyweight fight
Oleksandr Usyk’s biggest concern after the Daniel Dubois fight centered around fighter safety. The Ukrainian champion said the fight looked more like a “street fight” than a technical boxing match.
Both the giants faced clean punches for about 11 rounds. Wardley’s tenacity helped him stay in the fight, but his defensive mistakes allowed Dubois to be landed repeatedly.
Usyk’s comments reflect growing concerns about the long-term health risks associated with repeated head injuries and punishing fighting in boxing. Even though fans applauded the action, Usyk stressed that constant exchanges without smart defense can cause serious problems for fighters later in life.
At 39 years old, Usyk is one of boxing’s top technical fighters. He is preparing to defend his WBC heavyweight title against kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza this weekend.
For now, the heavyweight division is focused on Daniel Dubois, Fabio Wardley and a potential rematch that could shape the next title picture.
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