Get ready for a heavyweight showdown that could shake the boxing world! Daniel Dubois’ new trainer, Tony Sims, is setting his sights on a blockbuster WBO title fight against fellow Brit, Fabio Wardley. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Dubois truly ready to step back into the ring with a champion after his recent setbacks? Let’s dive in.
Following Daniel Dubois’ second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, Tony Sims took over as his trainer in August, marking a fresh chapter in the 28-year-old’s career. Dubois, mirroring his compatriot Johnny Fisher, brought Sims back into the heavyweight fold after a notable absence from the top tier. Sims, who once guided Anthony Joshua to the IBF title, now sees Wardley as the next logical step for Dubois’ resurgence. Wardley, fresh off his career-defining win over Joseph Parker in October, holds the WBO crown, making this matchup both tantalizing and contentious.
Sims is confident in Dubois’ progress, but is this fight coming too soon? Speaking to BoxingScene, Sims stated, ‘I’d like the Wardley fight for him. It’s been mentioned, and he’s operated at a higher level with Joshua and Usyk. A comeback fight isn’t enough—he’s past that stage.’ Sims believes this all-British clash would be a treat for fans, especially given both fighters’ knockout power. ‘It’d be a fantastic fight,’ he added. ‘They’re both punchers, and it’s a great matchup for British and global audiences alike.’
Dubois has been training with Sims for three to four months, focusing on technical improvements while awaiting a fight date. ‘He’s doing really well,’ Sims noted. ‘We’re just waiting for a date so he can dive into a full camp.’ Meanwhile, Wardley’s rise to champion status and Fisher’s recent win under Sims highlight the trainer’s growing influence in the heavyweight division. ‘It’s good to have two heavyweights in the gym,’ Sims remarked. ‘They’ve both fit in well, and having [assistant trainer] John Ryder helps manage the workload.’
And this is the part most people miss: Dubois’ team has expanded beyond Sims. After parting ways with Don Charles, he recruited Sam Jones as his advisor, while his sister, lightweight Caroline Dubois, recently signed with MVP. Sims, meanwhile, is gearing up to lead Craig Richards into an all-British light-heavyweight bout against Dan Azeez this Saturday.
But here’s the burning question: Is Dubois vs. Wardley a dream matchup or a risky gamble? With both fighters known for their power, it promises fireworks. Yet, Dubois’ recent losses raise doubts about his readiness. What do you think? Is this the fight to reignite Dubois’ career, or is Wardley simply too much, too soon? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
