Daniel Dubois is scheduled to defend his WBO heavyweight title in a highly anticipated rematch against Fabio Wardley on Oct. 17 at London’s O2 Arena.
The announcement was made official during a ring showdown Saturday in London.
Dubois, 28, previously claimed the championship by defeating Wardley with an 11th-round stoppage in Manchester last May.
The initial bout featured drama as Wardley scored early knockdowns.
However, Dubois rallied with a classy performance to stop Wardley in the 11th round and hand him his first professional defeat.
Expressing high confidence ahead of their second matchup, Dubois predicted a dominant victory.
“Let’s get it on. It’s just a war,” Dubois declared, BBC Sport reported.
Warning of the physical toll of their style, Dubois issued a sharp caution.
“When you get in the water, you’re going to get wet,” Dubois added, according to BBC Sport.
Meanwhile, Wardley triggered his rematch clause to seek redemption at a comfortable venue.
“The O2 is like a home away from home for me,” Wardley remarked, as BBC Sport and ESPN reported.
Determined to reclaim his title, Wardley made his intentions clear.
“Looking forward to getting straight back into it. Going to be a rematch and going to be revenge,” Wardley added, per BBC Sport and ESPN.
He acknowledged that while they entered with confidence, tactical adjustments are necessary.