Wardley's team have discussed potentially facing Daniel Dubois in the first defense of his belt.

Wardley, The Ring's No. 1-rated contender for three-time undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk's crown, was elevated to full champion a month after his latest recovery stoppage win over Joseph Parker on October 25.

The 31-year-old Ipswich puncher (20-0-1, 19 KOs) was previously linked with Chisora, though "Del Boy" has instead opted for a meeting against former long-reigning WBC beltholder Deontay Wilder on April 4.

Wardley's manager Mike Ofo told Sky Sports they pursued a bout against Chisora or hard-hitting Wilder but opted to see the funny side after their cordial first press conference this week.

"We were pursuing a fight with Chisora or Wilder for April 4, but they took refuge in each other's arms and as you can see from the presser, they are acting like a loved up couple. Boxing's a tough sport so I wish them all the best for the future.

"As for Dubois, clearly that's a fight that Fabio would be well up for. There's nothing like an all-British showdown for the world heavyweight title."

Dubois (22-3, 21 KOs) was Frank Warren's first-choice to face Parker, though an undisclosed injury ruled the former IBF beltholder out of contention after he sought a quick turnaround following his second defeat by Usyk in July.

Filip Hrgovic and Zhilei Zhang, also both rated among The Ring's top 10 at heavyweight, are also available options the new champion could choose from within the WBO's rankings.

Dubois-Zhang has been rumored, while WBC interim champion Agit Kabayel was open about potentially facing Dubois in January before another European opponent was chosen for Queensberry's return to Germany.

The 33-year-old overcame a sluggish first round before stopping Poland's overmatched contender Damian Knyba in Oberhausen and it has been reported the fan-friendly slugger is in negotiations for another title defense around April or May against a British foe.

Frank Warren, who promotes all three heavyweights, has so far kept the cards close to his chest but confirmed Wardley and Dubois will likely return by early May. Meanwhile, another Kabayel homecoming could keep him on track in securing his long-awaited wish.