Fabio Wardley has stormed into the heavyweight title picture after a stunning 11th-round stoppage win over Joseph Parker at London’s O2 Arena. The British fighter remains unbeaten in 21 professional bouts, including 19 knockouts, and now holds the WBO interim title.
The victory has put him directly in line for a shot at undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk — but the path to gold may not be straightforward.
Will Usyk Face Wardley?
Usyk became a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion after stopping Daniel Dubois in July. However, a back injury has kept him out since then, and he has suggested he does not plan to fight again in 2025.
The WBO has yet to issue a fresh order to begin negotiations with Wardley, but that could change soon following the upset result against Parker.
Wardley made his ambitions clear:
“I have one thing to say — Usyk, Usyk.”
If Usyk decides not to face him, the governing body could strip the champion of his belt, upgrading Wardley and setting up a potential clash with former titleholder Dubois.
Confirmed Upcoming Heavyweight Action
The heavyweight scene has slowed down in recent months, with no world-level title bouts scheduled in the remainder of 2025. But one key domestic showdown is locked in:
Frazer Clarke vs Jeamie ‘TKV’ Tshikeva
The fight was postponed from October after TKV suffered an injury but will now also mark the beginning of a new broadcasting partnership between BBC Sport and Boxxer.
When Will Joshua Return?
Anthony Joshua has been out since his knockout defeat to Dubois in September 2024. Recovering from elbow surgery, he remains keen to fight again this year.
Promoter Eddie Hearn says it’s “50-50” Joshua takes a warm-up bout before New Year — possibly on 13 December in California or 27 December in Saudi Arabia.
Joshua has long expressed his dream of fighting in Africa, but those plans are more likely to materialise in February 2026.
What About Moses Itauma?
Rising prospect Moses Itauma continues to build momentum after a first-round stoppage of Dillian Whyte in August. His next move remains uncertain amid ongoing negotiations.
The WBA has ordered Kubrat Pulev to defend his ‘regular’ title against Itauma, with London or Manchester being considered as host cities. Frank Warren insists Pulev must face the 20-year-old next.
Meanwhile, Derek Chisora has hinted that he and Whyte could complete a trilogy later in December — if terms are agreed.
Is Fury Really Done?
Tyson Fury’s future remains as unpredictable as ever. After losing twice to Usyk, he announced retirement — then flirted with a comeback multiple times.
He recently said there is “no actual reason” to fight again… but his ringside attendance for Wardley vs Parker has fuelled fresh speculation.
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