Fabio Wardley is embracing the underdog status as he prepares to reclaim the WBO world title lost to Daniel Dubois in May. The two British heavyweights are set to clash again at The O2 Arena this Saturday, following a dramatic first encounter where Dubois overcame adversity to stop Wardley in the 11th round.

Wardley, 31, from Ipswich, expressed his excitement about returning to the underdog role, stating, "Honestly, it’s great. I actually really love it. It feels more natural, more weightless." He acknowledged the pressures that come with being a champion and the expectations of facing a formidable opponent like Dubois.

Now, with the narrative shifted against him, Wardley feels liberated. He remarked, "I’m back to being expected to lose... I’ve been proving people wrong for I don’t know how many years now." This freedom allows him to reconnect with the journey that began in white collar boxing, saying, "This is the nice bit that I enjoyed for the past however many years on my rise."

On the other hand, Dubois is in his second reign as world heavyweight champion and is focused on becoming the undisputed champion. He carries his own underdog mentality, stating, "I always feel like the underdog – always. The way I came up, that’s the way he’s got to be. It’s backs against the wall, ready to bite and attack."

As both fighters prepare for this pivotal rematch, the stakes are high, and the narrative of underdog versus champion adds an intriguing layer to their rivalry.