Ben Davison has admitted that Fabio Wardley’s brutal fight against Daniel Dubois could have been stopped earlier, following growing criticism of the punishment Wardley absorbed.
The WBO heavyweight title clash on May at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester put on a war for the fans. Both fighters exchanged huge shots across 11 dramatic rounds before Dubois secured the stoppage victory to claim the title.
However, debate quickly emerged afterward regarding whether Wardley’s corner should have intervened sooner due to the visible damage he was taking.
Davison explains why Wardley continued
Posting on his Instagram story after the fight, Davison first congratulated Dubois while praising both heavyweights for producing an unforgettable battle.
“Firstly congrats to Dubois. 2 tremendous warriors in a modern day classic. We are super proud of Fabio,” Davison wrote.
The trainer then admitted that he understands why many believe the fight should have been waved off earlier.
“I actually agree the fight could of been stopped earlier.”
Davison explained that a key moment came before round 10 when Wardley appeared unstable, walking toward the ringside doctor, although the corner initially did not notice it clearly.
“I did not see Fabio stumble before walking over to the doctor at the start of round 10,” he wrote.
According to Davison, Wardley appeared steadier once he returned from the doctor’s examination.
“By which time he had gone over and seen the doctor and seemed much steadier on his legs which is what we saw.”
Davison says stopping fights is a difficult balance
Davison also argued that it can be difficult for trainers to decide when to stop a fight, especially when a boxer keeps responding and fighting back.
“It’s such a difficult job to not only find a balance but to strike at the right time,” Davison explained.
He pointed out that Wardley continued firing back at Dubois even during the later rounds, making the decision even more complicated.
“When your guy is responsive and firing back.”
Davison referenced previous situations in his career in which he faced both criticism and praise for corner stoppage decisions.
“I’ve seen mixed opinions on this one, but I agree it could of been stopped earlier,” he admitted.
Wardley continued fighting despite severe damage
Wardley endured massive punishment after a strong start that saw him drop Dubois early in the first round and force another knockdown in round three.
However, Dubois gradually took over the fight, repeatedly landing heavy combinations and right hands as Wardley’s right eye became completely swollen shut while blood poured from his nose.
Despite the damage, Wardley continued fighting back and survived until the referee eventually stopped the contest in round 11.
Davison ultimately backed referee Howard Foster’s handling of the fight despite acknowledging the criticism.
“However with that said I think Howard Foster got it bang on from his terms,” he wrote.
In another story, Davison shared that Wardley is fine, as he was taken to the hospital after the war against Dubois.
