From ‘bin man’ jab to title stakes: Wardley and Dubois take it to the ring in Manchester, 4

Shidonna Raven

3 hours ago

1 min read

This Article has been curated by UDBN

By KEN MAGUIRE

Updated 11:46 AM EDT, May 7, 2026

Source: A P

Image/Photo Source: Unsplash

Different paths

Dubois and Wardley made their pro debuts on the same day: April 8, 2017 — Dubois in Manchester, Wardley in London.

Dubois came up through the traditional amateur ranks before turning pro. Wardley got his start in “white collar boxing” — legal but largely unregulated events — and not until age 20.

London native Dubois has faced higher-caliber opponents: Two of his three losses were to Usyk. His first pro loss was in 2020 when he took a knee in the 10th round against Joe Joyce because of a fractured eye socket.

Wardley, who has sparred with Usyk, last fought in October when he stopped former champion Joseph Parker in the 11th round. That victory followed a 10th-round knockout of Australia’s Justis Huni, who was well ahead on points at Portman Road — home of Wardley’s beloved Ipswich soccer club.