In recent years, the heavyweight division has revived, and Joseph Parker is seizing this opportunity to reestablish himself as a top contender. This Saturday night, Parker is set to battle rising star Fabio Wardley, aiming to inch closer to another world championship reign.
Parker, with a record of 36 wins and 3 losses, including 24 knockouts, currently holds the WBO interim title. Wardley, undefeated at 19-0-1 with 18 knockouts, is the WBA interim champion. Both fighters are positioned for potential shots at undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk, though Wardley must also navigate a challenge from WBA “regular” champion Kubrat Pulev.
Parker first won the WBO world title in December 2016 by defeating Andy Ruiz Jr. He successfully defended the title twice but lost it to Anthony Joshua in March 2018, followed by a decision loss to Dillian Whyte. After a setback in 2022 with a knockout loss to Joe Joyce, many believed Parker’s time as a contender was over. However, he has since staged a remarkable comeback, winning six consecutive fights, including notable victories over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole.
Wardley aims to maintain his undefeated status; his only non-win came in a March 2024 draw with Frazer Clarke. He silenced critics by decisively defeating Clarke in a rematch later that year. In his last bout, Wardley showcased his resilience, overcoming a tough challenge from Justis Huni, where he was behind in scoring until a dramatic 10th-round knockout clinched the victory.
As the fight approaches, odds favor Parker at -400 against Wardley’s +280. The event will take place on October 25 at the O2 Arena in London, starting at 1:30 p.m. ET and available for live viewing on DAZN PPV for $59.99.
Experts are divided on the likely outcome. While Wardley’s raw power poses a significant threat, Parker’s boxing skills and experience could potentially lead him to victory. Parker managed to secure three wins that have rekindled his title hopes, but there are nuances to his recent successes, including being knocked down in two of those bouts.
Saturday promises an exciting matchup as both fighters seek to capitalize on their respective strengths. With the stakes high, fans eagerly await to see if Parker can prove his doubters wrong or if Wardley’s power will deliver an upset victory.