Fabio Wardley could have massive fights ahead after claiming the WBA interim world heavyweight championship.
On a night he’ll never forget, the Englishman pulled off one of the greatest come-from-behind victories of all time in front of his adoring fans at Ipswich Town Football Club’s Portman Road.
Going into the tenth round, Wardley was a mile behind, with his classy opponent, Justis Huni, showcasing tremendous boxing skills. Then, in a moment of madness, the power puncher detonated a monstrous right hand to end the show.
Remarkably, the Wardley story continues. With that in mind, we’ve had a look at five opponents the warrior could set foot inside the ring with next.
Oleksandr Usyk
While talk of a fight with Oleksandr Usyk might seem somewhat premature, having claimed the WBA interim belt, at some point, Fabio Wardley will likely receive a shot at the full title, held by the two-weight undisputed champion.
On paper, the Brit has little to no chance of dethroning the pound-for-pound number one; however, with such venom in his punches, you can never write him off.
Daniel Dubois
On July 19, Usyk will go to war with Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in London, UK.
The super fight serves as a rematch of their first controversial encounter, in which ‘Triple D’ dropped the icon with a shot that was deemed a low blow.
Regardless, Usyk came out on top, and now Dubois is ready to try and gain his revenge. And should he win, a domestic showdown with Wardley could be on the cards.
Kubrat Pulev
With Kubrat Pulev holding the WBA Regular heavyweight title, a clash with Wardley is potentially on the horizon.
At the peak of his powers, the Bulgarian was a tremendous operator, but at the age of 44, his best days are undeniably in the rear-view mirror, possibly opening the door for the Ipswich fighter to pick up another big victory.
Michael Hunter
Michael Hunter is currently next in line to face Kubrat Pulev, with Don King winning a purse bid to promote a bout between the pair.
Blessed with slick skills, the American will likely be the favourite going into the collision. And should he relieve ‘The Cobra’ of his title, then Wardley could have to go back into the trenches against an opponent far more skilled than he is.
However, the WBA interim champion isn’t scared, with the pair recently going back-and-forth on social media. After Hunter congratulated Wardley on his big win, the powerhouse responded: “Appreciate it, bro. Do your thing and we’ll see each other soon. All the best.”
Justis Huni
For ten rounds, Justis Huni was borderline flawless until one mistake resulted in horrifying consequences.
Now, the gifted boxer has to head back to Australia, likely furious that his crowning moment was taken away in the blink of an eye.
With the gifted practitioner of the sweet science so far up on the cards at the time of the stoppage, there’s no doubt he’d jump at the opportunity of a rematch.