The ongoing tension between Daniel Dubois' advisor Sam Jones and Fabio Wardley's manager Mike Ofo has resurfaced, this time over the heavyweight championship rematch clause.
Wardley triggered an immediate rematch clause after losing his WBO title to Dubois via an 11th-round stoppage in Manchester in May.
Despite Wardley knocking Dubois down twice early in their initial bout, Jones questioned whether taking an immediate return fight serves Wardley's long-term interests.
"I don't think it's a wise decision, but when it's a free shot at the world heavyweight title, he's probably thinking, 'I don't want to come back and have a comeback fight for not so much good money'," said Sam Jones.
Jones noted that while rematch clauses are standard practice, stepping back into the ring so quickly after a tough stoppage loss poses significant physical risks.
"He's used to making millions of pounds, so he's thinking a free shot of the world heavyweight title," said Jones.
The advisor emphasized that Dubois' team expects formal confirmation on their next opponent within weeks, maintaining confidence in the champion's abilities.
"It's a rematch clause that they put in, rightfully so. I'd have done exactly the same.
But when you take a hiding like that, it can be dangerous. But let's see what happens," said Jones.
Jones expressed certainty that Dubois would secure an even faster victory if the second bout materializes.
"We'll know in more than a couple of weeks what Daniel's going to do.
But if it's Fabio Wardley, I would just imagine Daniel to beat him a lot quicker this time," said Jones.
He further highlighted Dubois' natural physical advantages and power despite acknowledging Wardley's resilience and punching power.
"I have so much time and admiration for Fabio Wardley," said Jones.
Jones reiterated his belief in Dubois' overall boxing fundamentals and superior strength in the division.
"He's a one-off with his lack of amateur experience," said Jones.
The advisor described Wardley's rise in the heavyweight division as a unique story while maintaining that Dubois remains the superior boxer.
"He's a 'Rocky' story.
But I just believe that Daniel is a better fighter than Fabio Wardley, better fundamentals, bigger puncher, stronger than him.
I just think Daniel Dubois is better than him," said Jones.
Jones acknowledged that Wardley possesses the knockout power to alter any fight's trajectory.
"But Fabio Wardley has an equaliser. He showed he can hurt Daniel.
He put him down twice. But they were his only moments in the fight, in my opinion," said Jones.
He concluded his assessment by reiterating that Dubois ultimately dominated the physical exchanges in the first fight.
"I think Daniel ended up giving him a right beating in the fight. Let's see what happens.
But Fabio's a really good man. I wish him all the best.
If he fights Daniel next, we'll see him soon," said Jones.
Jones expressed goodwill toward Wardley's future regardless of whether the rematch agreement is finalized.
"If he doesn't, then I wish him all the best in his amazing career," said Jones.
In response to Jones' statements, Wardley's manager Mike Ofo firmly rejected the characterization of the fight and dismissed concerns over Wardley's health.
"I find it offensive to call it a 'free shot,'" said Mike Ofo.
Ofo argued that Dubois had benefited from a similar title opportunity previously and insisted that the rematch will proceed as planned.
"If anyone had a free shot, it was Daniel coming off a loss to Usyk," said Ofo.
The manager asserted that Wardley remains fully committed to the rematch without interference.
"If Jones was in the loop, he would know that the fight is going to take place.
Fabio is still firmly in the driver's seat while Jones is not even a passenger in the car from the content of his bleating," said Ofo.
Ofo clarified that Wardley suffered no lasting damage from the first contest and is preparing to make tactical adjustments.
"Fabio had no major injuries, no concussion just cosmetic damage. Daniel threw everything, including the kitchen sink, and still couldn't put Fabio down.
Fabio does not fear Daniel, and I fully expect him to learn from his mistakes and knock Daniel out next time," said Ofo.
He further criticized Jones' authority and role within Dubois' promotional team.
"Jones' assessment holds no weight and is more a reflection of his inflated ego than of what actually took place," said Ofo.
Ofo reiterated that both fighters delivered a high-caliber contest and that Wardley's sole focus remains reclaiming the WBO belt.
"What is cogent is that it was a great fight between two warriors, and Fabio has every intention of winning his belt back in dramatic fashion," said Ofo.
The manager directed harsh words toward Jones' official standing in the sport.
"Jones is just a ventriloquist's dummy for Stan Dubois, doing what he's told. He's only licensed to talk rubbish as he's not a licensed boxing manager," said Ofo.
Ofo concluded by emphasizing that public interest should remain on the athletes and the upcoming fight.
"But it's not about us; the focus should be on the fighters and the rematch, which is going to be another fight of the year and nobody will be disappointed," said Ofo.
