Frank Warren has made clear that the anticipated rematch between IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua is unlikely to happen anytime soon. This statement comes after Dubois’ explosive victory over Joshua in September at Wembley, where he claimed the IBF title by delivering a stunning knockout. Initially, there were high hopes for an immediate sequel to the bout, especially with Dubois emerging as a new star in British boxing, but Warren has stated that due to Joshua’s ongoing recovery from injuries sustained in their first encounter, they are now exploring alternative options for Dubois’ next fight, which is scheduled for February 22. Warren expressed his desire to finalize Dubois’ next matchup soon, signaling a proactive approach as they prepare for a fight that he emphasizes needs to proceed as planned on that date.
Dubois’ triumph over Joshua not only elevated his status but also set the expectation for a quick rematch, with many analysts and fans believing Dubois would naturally defend his title against Joshua next. However, the situation has dramatically shifted, particularly in light of conflicting reports regarding Joshua’s health. Warren confirmed that the delay in negotiations has precluded any possibility of an immediate return to the ring for these two fighters. The promoter suggested that even though securing a rematch would have been ideal, Dubois must continue his career while waiting for Joshua to recover, which has shifted the focus away from an immediate clash.
Currently, Warren has indicated that discussions are underway for Dubois’ next opponent, with an announcement expected imminently. While the promoter has talked about several potential challengers, his focus remains keen on ensuring Dubois fights on February 22. Among the fighters being considered are fellow British heavyweight Fabio Wardley, who recently stole the spotlight following a quick knockout against Frazer Clarke. However, Warren insists that a matchup with Wardley would be better off postponed until further opportunities arise, as he believes additional buildup could make a potential fight much more significant in the future.
The promoter has also mentioned other names in the mix for Dubois’ second title defense. Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang have emerged as strong candidates, presenting other avenues for Dubois to solidify his position within the heavyweight ranks. Warren’s strategy appears to encompass not only the immediate goal of keeping Dubois active and competitive but also maintaining the trajectory toward a feasible rematch with Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight title. Dubois, eager to capitalize on the momentum following his win over Joshua, is in full agreement with Warren’s approach to explore various opponents.
Despite the ongoing uncertainties surrounding Joshua’s potential return, Warren remains steadfast in his ambition to cultivate Dubois’ rise in the heavyweight division. He aims to convert Dubois’ knockout victory over Joshua into a continued period of success, establishing him as one of the premier heavyweights in boxing today. Warren’s emphasis on an active and strategic fight schedule is vital, especially in a division where prominence is highly contested.
Ultimately, as boxing fans await further developments regarding Dubois’ next fight, the heavyweight landscape may shift in unexpected ways. The possibility of Joshua regrouping and returning to prominence remains, but until he is fully ready, Frank Warren’s focus is on leveraging Dubois’ newfound recognition and securing a fight that continues to build his legacy in the heavyweight class. With potential matchups on the horizon, anticipation grows around who Dubois will face next and how it will affect the future dynamics of the heavyweight boxing scene.
