Fabio Wardley is getting ready for a primary defence of the WBO heavyweight world title and there’s a former champion who hopes to be within the opposing nook and to reclaim world honours.
Wardley underwent an exceptional rise throughout 2025, shifting up from the home stage to tackle Justis Huni in his first introduction to the world stage, as he accomplished his dream of headlining at Portman Highway.
After 10 rounds of being second-best towards the Australian, Wardley lastly confirmed that he belonged as he introduced the present to an in depth with a sensational knockout having been down on the playing cards.
The Ipswich fan-favourite then set a few rise into title competition and bravely accepted a conflict with in-form WBO Interim titleholder Joseph Parker and as soon as once more discovered himself being outboxed as he entered the championship rounds.
But, Wardley once more confirmed his energy and shook up the division by halting Parker in spherical 11 to get his fingers on the WBO Interim strap, which was upgraded to the complete world title when Oleksandr Usyk vacated.
Now, Wardley appears to determine himself as a worthy world champion, however he might be set for a tricky activity in his first world title contest if Daniel Dubois has his method. The previous IBF heavyweight ruler advised iFL TV that he would ‘leap on the alternative’ to problem for Wardley’s WBO crown.
“That’s it, [I want to] get that title again. That’s my mission, for now.
I nonetheless need it [the Wardley fight], carry it on, I can’t wait. If Frank makes that combat then I will likely be delighted, I’ll leap at that chance. Whoever steps up, I’m prepared.”
Derek Chisora had been thought-about because the frontrunner to be Wardley’s first challenger, however the 49-fight veteran now appears set to tackle Deontay Wilder as a substitute, with a date and site already touted for what will likely be ‘Del Boy’s’ farewell combat.
