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The heavyweight division continues to draw many eyes, with memorable fights and intriguing matchups rumoured. Declan Taylor from The Ring Magazine is reporting that Queensberry Promotions are “close to finalising” an October 25 clash between Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley.
Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley Set for October 25 in London
Queensberry Close to Finalising Heavyweight Showdown
Oleksandr Usyk defeated Daniel Dubois on July 19 to become the 2x undisputed champion. Following that fight, it was quickly revealed that Joseph Parker was next in line for a shot at Usyk as the WBO mandatory. The proposed bout between Parker and Wardley would be for Parker’s interim title.
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Frank Warren revealed to Sky Sports that Usyk had asked for an extension in reaching an agreement to face Parker after Usyk was ordered to face his WBO mandatory: He (Usyk) put a letter in yesterday stating that he’s asked him for an extension period, because he’s injured, before being ordered to do anything.”
Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley
A matchup between Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) and Wardley would be promoted by Queensberry and take place at the O2 Arena. Parker has been on a sensational run of form, winning his last six fights, since losing to Joe Joyce. In that run of form, Parker has defeated Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole. During these fights, Parker has shown exceptional ring IQ and experience.
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Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KOs) has enjoyed a memorable rise up the heavyweight ranks. Last time out, he was trailing Justis Huni 89-82 on two of the cards and 88-83 on the other, when he landed a right hand from the gods to knock out Huni in the 10th round.
The WBO picture remains uncertain after Usyk was videoed dancing on social media, thus leading to the governing body requesting a full medical prognosis on his condition. If Usyk decides to vacate his WBO crown or is stripped by the WBO, Parker as the interim champion will be elevated to full champion. Parker vs Wardley would then be Parker’s first defence of the full title.
Could we even see the winner fighting for the full title, to then face Usyk, with the Ukrainian having the opportunity to become a three-time undisputed heavyweight champion?
