Itauma Challenges Dubois After Manchester Title Fight

Daniel Dubois reclaimed the WBO heavyweight title after a dramatic fight against Fabio Wardley in Manchester on Saturday night, where he survived two early knockdowns to stop Wardley in the 11th round. Referee Howard Foster halted the bout, marking Dubois' 22nd stoppage win at 28 years old.

Following the fight, rising contender Itauma, who is a training partner of Wardley, expressed his desire to challenge Dubois. The president of the World Boxing Organization, Gustavo Olivieri, indicated that Itauma could be recommended as a mandatory challenger, pending committee approval.

This recommendation comes as Dubois is allowed to make a voluntary defense before facing Itauma. The fight's outcome has generated momentum for Itauma, who recently stopped Jermain Franklin, a feat neither Anthony Joshua nor Dillian Whyte achieved against the same opponent.

Itauma is currently ranked number one by the WBO and is targeting a major title fight.