Five options for Daniel Dubois after crushing knockout of Fabio Wardley

In a dominating performance at London's O2 Arena, Daniel Dubois secured his WBO heavyweight belt with a crushing second-round knockout of fellow Briton Fabio Wardley. The 29-year-old champion pummeled Wardley with a straight right hand, immediately dropping him and ending the fight after just 17 seconds. Despite Wardley's valiant effort to stay standing, he was unable to overcome the onslaught and the fight was stopped by referee Steve Gray.

Dubois, never one for lengthy speeches, confidently declared himself the superior fighter, stating, "I had my intentions, bad intentions, from the beginning. Our back was against the wall the first time, this time we just had to go out there and show that we mean business and that's what we did tonight."

Dubois had previously dealt Wardley his first professional defeat in May when he won the title via a unanimous decision in the 11th round. However, Wardley, promoted to WBO champion after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the title, displayed remarkable courage in his first challenge.

Looking ahead, Dubois has five potential opponents to face next: 1. Filip Hrgovic, the Croatian who holds the IBF title after defeating Moses Itauma. Hrgovic must first defend his title against mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez. 2. Agit Kabayel, who holds the WBC title and is set to defend it against Nelson Hysa next month. A unification fight against Kabayel would be a significant occasion.

3. The winner of the upcoming fight between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, with the WBA title reportedly on the line. 4. Frank Sanchez, who, if successful against Hrgovic, would likely face Dubois next. 5. Oleksandr Usyk, who has defeated Dubois twice in the past, presenting another opportunity for a rematch.