Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Wardley Stops Parker in 11th to Win WBO Interim Belt, Puts Usyk on Notice

The upset elevates Wardley to interim champion status, positioning him as Usyk’s likely mandatory pending a WBO ruling.

Overview

  • Referee Howard Foster halted the bout in Round 11 with Parker on the ropes, a decision questioned by some observers and defended by Derek Chisora, while Parker said he felt able to continue.
  • Official scorecards released after the fight showed Parker leading 98-92 and 96-94 with the third card 95-95 through 10 rounds, underscoring Wardley’s late turnaround.
  • Promoter Frank Warren said Wardley should face Usyk for all four belts next, though the WBO has not yet issued updated instructions on the champion’s mandatory defense.
  • Wardley called out Usyk in his post-fight remarks and now holds the WBO interim title after adding another late stoppage to a resume that includes a 10th-round KO of Justis Huni.
  • Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois watched ringside as Wardley extended his unbeaten run, with potential outcomes now hinging on whether the WBO orders Usyk to defend or vacate.