Overview

• Multiple outlets report Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley are close to finalising a fight for October 25 at London’s O2 Arena.
• Parker holds the WBO interim belt and has been named the mandatory challenger to undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk.
• Usyk’s team requested additional time to negotiate due to an injury, and the WBO has sought updated medical evidence after a video of him dancing surfaced.
• Wardley is unbeaten at 18-0-1 and claimed the WBA interim title with a 10th‑round knockout of Justis Huni in June.
• The winner would be well placed for a world-title shot, and Parker could be elevated if the WBO strips or Usyk vacates the title.