Wardley vs Dubois: How the new heavyweight champion silenced his critics

Heavyweights are under a particularly harsh spotlight and DuBois has taken more than his fair share of scrutiny. One loss to Joe Joyce and two to Oleksandr Usyk have shaped much of the public perception surrounding him, as have persistent questions about his discipline.

These doubts now feel very old. At the age of 28, Dubois is a two-time heavyweight champion of the world – one younger than both Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury when they achieved the same feat.

The contrast between the two men was stark during fight week.

Wardley carries the man born for the camera with ease. Outspoken, intelligent and relaxed, the Ipswich man was spotted strolling around Manchester city centre. DuBois, meanwhile, walked away from two interviews.

In one, Joyce’s defeat was visibly highlighted. In another, he appeared upset at what he felt was being mocked by a “rapid-fire” question.

It raises a broader question about double standards; Will Joshua or Fury be heavily criticized if they choose not to engage with pre-fight promotional content?

When DuBois answers awkwardly or delivers clipped responses, he is often mocked online. But boxing is still the only world Dubois has yet to explore.

The homeschooled heavyweight has never been completely comfortable under the camera’s spotlight. He is not a natural salesman and has little interest in manufactured theatre.

Amazingly, DuBois changed moments after scoring the biggest win of his career.

In the post-fight interview he spoke calmly, clearly and with genuine warmth. He paid tribute to Wardley, and recognized his opponent for the punishment he received.

Gone was the guarded and awkward persona that had appeared earlier in the week – DuBois appeared completely comfortable in his own skin.