Unification fights could be next for dubois after beating wardley: What’s at stake in heavyweight division 2?

Dubois weighs his options

Dubois can pursue unification bouts after his victory over Wardley. IBF champion Filip Hrgovic entered the ring after the fight, and both men have expressed interest in a rematch.

Hrgovic, 34, has a mandatory defence to consider against Cuba’s Frank Sanchez. Another possible route for Dubois is a fight with the winner of Fury and Joshua’s December showdown.

Fury and Joshua’s December fight

After years of negotiations and false starts, Fury and Joshua are scheduled to meet at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. The event begins on 11 December, with the main bout expected in the early hours of 12 December.

Warren says the vacant WBA ‘super’ title will be at stake, which could create opportunities for unification fights in 2027. Both British fighters are reportedly set to earn close to $100m (£75m), making that prospect less likely to be an immediate priority.

Usyk and other contenders

Germany’s Agit Kabayel, elevated to WBC champion after Usyk vacated the belt, is due to make his first defence against Albania’s Nelson Hysa on 28 November. Usyk gave up the WBA, WBC and IBF titles in June, leaving the unbeaten Ukrainian to decide how to approach the final chapter of his career.

Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven exceeded expectations before losing to Usyk by an 11th-round stoppage, with one second left in the round. Verhoeven wants a rematch, while talks involving Deontay Wilder as a possible Usyk opponent appear to have stalled.

A new generation emerges

Moses Itauma’s progress towards a world title was checked by his first professional loss, against Hrgovic. He will need to build stamina, pacing and tactical patience for 12-round fights before seeking another title chance.