Usyk warns Dubois-Wardley 'street fight' will haunt both fighters

Oleksandr Usyk believes Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardley will both pay a long-term price for their brutal WBO heavyweight title fight.

Dubois dropped Wardley twice early before stopping him in the 11th round, but Usyk told The Ring the bout resembled a street brawl more than a boxing match. "It's a street fight," Usyk said, per Ring Magazine. "Congratulations Dubois, good job, new world champion, but Fabio, where is jab? It's not working. Very strong chin but I think this is a street fight, it's a problem for both guys for [the] brain and health."

Wardley rematch requires medical clearance first, says Usyk

Wardley has already activated his rematch clause, with promoter Frank Warren targeting a return before year's end. But Usyk, who has brought Wardley into his camp for sparring sessions in the past, urged caution. "After a fight like that, you cannot think only with your heart," the Ukrainian said. "You have to listen to your body, listen to the doctors, listen to your team."

Many observers felt the referee should have waved off the contest sooner as Dubois battered Wardley's face, with the ringside doctor called in twice to assess the damage. Usyk acknowledged the dilemma: "Sometimes the fighter will not stop himself, because his heart will not allow it. Then the referee and the corner have to help him."

Usyk defends his WBC and Ring Magazine heavyweight titles against Rico Verhoeven at The Pyramids of Giza on May 23, live on DAZN pay-per-view. He has indicated the Verhoeven fight is the first of a three-bout exit strategy, with Dubois or Wardley potentially next as he looks to reclaim the WBO strap he vacated in December.

Source: ringmagazine.com