Overview
- Wardley stopped Joseph Parker in the 11th round to claim the WBO interim heavyweight title and mandatory status, with promoter Frank Warren eyeing March 2026 in London or Riyadh and purse bids if no deal is reached.
- Oleksandr Usyk’s former promoter Alexander Krassyuk said a Wardley bout “makes no sense” without an exceptional payday and urged the unbeaten champion to retire as soon as possible.
- Wardley told talkSPORT his unorthodox style, stamina and heavy right hand give him a real chance against Usyk, and he wants the undisputed shot next.
- The Ring moved Wardley up to No. 2 at heavyweight, while analysis of Parker’s loss highlighted his 262.5lb weigh‑in, a late nose cut and debate over referee Howard Foster’s stoppage.
- Derek Chisora advised Wardley to fight Daniel Dubois before challenging Usyk, and John Fury called on Tyson Fury to stay retired even as promoter Frank Warren said Fury has indicated he wants to continue.