Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois are set to collide for the WBO heavyweight world title on May 9, 2026, at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester. This matchup marks a significant moment in both fighters’ careers, as Wardley was recently elevated to WBO world champion prior to the fight.

Dubois is entering this contest as he competes in his third consecutive world title bout, showcasing his determination to reclaim a championship. The stakes are high, and both fighters are expected to bring their best to the ring.

Promoted by Frank Warren through Queensberry Promotions, the event will also feature Moses Itauma, who is set to face Jermaine Franklin on the same card. Itauma, at just 21 years old, has an impressive record, having stopped his last nine opponents before the second round.

Franklin, on the other hand, has never been stopped in his 26-fight career, with only two losses to his name. This adds an intriguing dynamic to the card, as Itauma seeks to extend his knockout streak against a resilient opponent.

Guido Vianello, a fellow heavyweight, commented on the upcoming Wardley vs. Dubois fight, stating, “Daniel is a very dangerous heavyweight, his right-hand is very dangerous but Fabio is so smart.” He further praised Wardley, saying, “Fabio was very smart for all the rounds,” highlighting the tactical aspect of the bout.

Moses Itauma expressed his own uncertainties ahead of his fight, saying, “There’s still question marks for myself,” indicating the pressure that comes with high-stakes boxing matches.

Jermaine Franklin also shared his feelings about the upcoming fight, stating, “I feel disrespected but it’s part of the game,” reflecting the competitive nature of boxing and the emotions involved.

As the date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling night of boxing. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Wardley can solidify his status as a worthy heavyweight ruler against a formidable opponent in Dubois.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding ticket sales and broadcast information, but the event is expected to attract significant attention in the boxing community.

With both fighters at pivotal points in their careers, this matchup could have lasting implications for the heavyweight division.

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Tonight, the boxing world turns its attention to Manchester, where Moses Itauma is set to face Jermaine Franklin in a highly anticipated heavyweight bout. The stakes are high as Itauma, boasting an impressive professional record of 13 wins and 11 knockouts, aims to solidify his status as a top contender and move closer to a world title shot later this year.

Franklin, on the other hand, enters the ring with a record of 24 wins, 2 losses, and 15 knockouts. He has previously fought notable opponents such as Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte, showcasing his experience at the highest levels of the sport. This matchup is not just a fight; it represents a crucial moment in both fighters’ careers.

The event is scheduled to commence with the opening fight at 3:10 PM GMT, leading up to the main event featuring Itauma and Franklin at approximately 10:30 PM GMT. Fans can catch all the action live on DAZN, with subscriptions starting at £15.99 per month. The fight card includes a total of 10 bouts, promising an exciting evening for boxing enthusiasts.

Itauma has expressed confidence ahead of the fight, stating, “I’ve not overlooked him. I know a lot of people are expecting me to do X, Y, and Z – I don’t pay attention to that.” His focus on Franklin indicates a serious approach to this challenge, as he seeks to maintain his undefeated record.

Franklin, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of continuous improvement in his craft, saying, “I don’t think you can put enough into your craft when you’re still trying to perfect it and learn it.” This mindset could play a crucial role in his performance tonight, as he looks to bounce back and prove his mettle against a rising star.

The fight is part of a broader heavyweight boxing event, which has garnered significant attention in the UK. Itauma is widely regarded as a promising prospect in British boxing, and a victory tonight could propel him into discussions for a world title fight later this year.

As the evening unfolds, all eyes will be on Manchester, where the outcome of this bout could have lasting implications for both fighters. Details remain unconfirmed regarding future matchups, but the anticipation surrounding this event is palpable.

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Moses Itauma, a promising heavyweight boxer, is scheduled to fight Jermaine Franklin on March 28, 2026, at Co-op Live in Manchester, United Kingdom. This matchup comes after a previous postponement from January 24, 2026, due to an injury sustained by Itauma.

At just 21 years old, Itauma has made a significant impact in the boxing world, having stopped 11 of his 13 opponents. His last fight was a remarkable knockout of Dillian Whyte in August 2025, which he achieved in just one round. This victory has solidified his status as a top contender in the heavyweight division.

Franklin, on the other hand, has a record of 24 fights with only two losses, both by points to notable fighters Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte. This upcoming fight is expected to be a significant test for Itauma as he faces a more experienced opponent.

The main event ring-walks are anticipated to begin around 11 p.m. GMT, with the undercard starting at approximately 5 p.m. GMT. Observers are keen to see how Itauma performs against Franklin, who has proven to be a tough competitor.

Since the start of 2025, Itauma has spent only 354 seconds in the ring, a statistic that highlights his efficiency in finishing fights quickly. He is currently ranked as the WBA’s No. 1 contender and holds the No. 3 spot with the WBC.

Murat Gassiev, the current WBA ‘Regular’ title holder, has expressed interest in facing Itauma in the future, with his coach, Anton Kadushin, stating, “We won’t avoid him.” This indicates that Itauma’s rise in the heavyweight rankings could lead to more high-profile bouts.

Itauma himself remains confident about his future, saying, “Let’s say I surpass Franklin… I don’t think that’s bad going.” He has also noted the quality of his opponents, stating, “Having 13 fights and having Dillian Whyte, Demsey McKean and Mariusz Wach on your record, I think that’s not bad for somebody that’s been professional three years.”

As the fight date approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Itauma’s skills will translate against a seasoned fighter like Franklin. The outcome could significantly impact the trajectory of both boxers’ careers.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further implications of this fight on the heavyweight division rankings.

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