Frank Warren, the seasoned promoter, seems confident that a rematch between his fighter Daniel Dubois and former champion Anthony Joshua is unlikely to occur in the near future. Following Dubois’ shocking knockout victory over Joshua at Wembley, the boxing community has been buzzing with anticipation about what’s next for the rising heavyweight star. Warren has voiced that while discussions are ongoing about Dubois’ next opponent, the immediate return bout with Joshua might not materialize. In boxing, where every fight can turn the tides of a career, this decision could be significant for both fighters.
While Joshua looms large over discussions, Fabio Wardley has emerged as a potential challenger for Dubois as early as February 22. Warren suggests that a fight between Dubois and Wardley should be thoughtfully cultivated to become a major event rather than a quick matchup. This could reflect a broader strategy in boxing: the patience to build a narrative and hype around a fight, which often leads to greater financial returns and fan engagement. The idea of Dubois facing Wardley is intriguing, as Wardley has been quickly gaining traction in the heavyweight division himself. To build anticipation, fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how this rivalry could evolve.
Zhilei Zhang: A New Contender
Adding another layer to the conversation, Zhilei Zhang has also expressed interest in stepping into the ring with Dubois on the proposed date in February. As per sources close to Zhang, there’s a genuine desire on his part to take on Dubois, promising an explosive matchup that fans are craving. Both fighters are known for their heavy hitting—Dubois, with a commendable record of 22 wins (21 by knockout), and Zhang, who boasts a record of 27 wins (22 by knockout). This potential clash could prove to be not just entertaining, but pivotal in determining the trajectory of each fighter’s career.
As the hype builds for Dubois’ next outing, it’s crucial to consider the stakes involved. A victory against a formidable opponent like Zhang could solidify Dubois’ place within the heavyweight elite and even raise questions about potential future title shots. Warren has acknowledged the urgency of finalizing a match, stating the need for clarity in the coming week. The expectations from fans translate into a demand for high-stakes bouts that not only showcase incredible skill but also the unpredictable nature of heavyweight boxing.
Heavyweight boxing never fails to surprise, with twists and turns that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s the potential for Dubois to fight Zhang or a more gradual build-up for a clash with Wardley, the landscape is bustling with possibilities. As noted by Warren, the coming weeks will be critical in determining Dubois’ next opponent, and boxing enthusiasts can hardly contain their excitement as they await announcements about this thrilling chapter in heavyweight boxing.