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Wardley's manager slams 'dirty Dan' Dubois tactics as Don Charles hits back

Michael Ofo wants a stronger referee for Saturday's WBO heavyweight rematch at the O2. Dubois' trainer put the claims down to "insecurity and weakness".

By Combat Sports UK Staff · Published · AI-assisted reporting
Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardley face off
Photo: Sky Sports

Fabio Wardley's manager has criticised Daniel Dubois' tactics in their first fight and called for a stronger referee for Saturday's WBO heavyweight title rematch at the O2 in London.

"There was a lot of leading with the head. The MMA rugby tackle," Michael Ofo told Sky Sports. "He got the victory but there was a lot of dirty Dan on display."

He added: "We're calling for a stronger referee, because it's needed. There should be a punishment if you're not hurt and you take a knee."

Ofo said Wardley would not make the complaint himself. "Fabio's a nice guy and he doesn't say it but it's our job to put the wrongs right," he said.

Dubois' trainer Don Charles dismissed the claims. "I struggle to find out what he means… It's a fight," he told Sky Sports. Asked what he put them down to, he said: "Insecurity and weakness." He added: "You want to clutch at whatever you're going to clutch at. It's too late."

British Boxing Board of Control general secretary Robert Smith said: "The referee will look after both of them fairly."

Dubois got up from the canvas twice to stop Wardley and win the WBO title in May. For the UK start time and how to watch, see Daniel Dubois vs Fabio Wardley UK start time.

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Fabio WardleyDaniel Dubois
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