LONDON: Former world champions Barry Jones and Carl Frampton expect Daniel Dubois to stop Fabio Wardley again in Saturday’s World Boxing Organisation (WBO) heavyweight title rematch.
Dubois, 29, makes his first defence after recovering from two knockdowns to stop Wardley in the 11th round in Manchester in May. Wardley, 31, activated his rematch clause after suffering his first professional defeat.
Jones predicts a quicker finish this time, backing Dubois to win inside five rounds. He praised the champion’s composure after the knockdowns and his corner’s role in keeping him calm.
Meanwhile, Frampton expects Dubois to prevail between rounds seven and 10. He believes Wardley’s best chance is to attack aggressively in the opening rounds.
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However, former cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew favours the challenger. “I am going to back Fabio Wardley by knockout within six rounds,” he said.
British heavyweight champion Richard Riakporhe also leans towards Wardley, citing his resilience and work rate. Fellow heavyweight Jamie TKV backs his gym-mate but acknowledges that connection influences his prediction.
Of the 14 contributors BBC Sport consulted, 10 selected Dubois, three chose Wardley, and one declined to pick a winner.
Presenter Ade Oladipo and former middleweight world champion Darren Barker highlighted Dubois’ confidence as an advantage. Commentator Adam Smith expects a knockout but considers the outcome evenly balanced.
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The rematch takes place at the O2 Arena on Saturday. Jones and Frampton predict another stoppage win for Dubois, while Bellew and Riakporhe favour Wardley.
