Parker vs. Wardley: Risk and Reward for the Usyk Challenge

Joseph Parker Seeks His Rematch for the World Heavyweight Title

Following Oleksandr Usyk’s victory over Daniel Dubois in July, excitement and expectations in the boxing world soared. Among the crowd surrounding the ring, the presence of Joseph Parker stood out, who had a special reason to approach the newly crowned undisputed heavyweight champion.

“I am next,” Parker respectfully declared to Usyk, who responded with little enthusiasm.

Joseph Parker

The WBO ordered Usyk to defend his title against the interim champion, an announcement that put Parker in a favorable position. It was widely recognized that Parker had earned the right to face Usyk, but the reality was more complex. An injury to Usyk and his request for additional time to recover left Parker in a state of uncertainty. The New Zealand boxer is experiencing a moment of great success, with a winning streak that positions him among the best of today. His recent victories over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole, the latter by knockout in the second round, rekindled his aspirations to become a two-time heavyweight champion. The situation with Usyk generated some impatience in Parker.

Joseph Parker

His determination led him to accept a fight with Fabio Wardley, an undefeated boxer with great punching power. The fight will take place in London. A victory would consolidate Parker’s position for a future fight with Usyk. However, Wardley is a dangerous rival, capable of knocking out Justis Huni in July, despite being at a disadvantage on the scorecards.

“I think winning definitely puts you in that position,” Parker stated. “But whether you’re going to get it or not, that’s another story. The best approach for this fight is to go out and enjoy it. And when you’re having fun, everything flows well, flows better, and you can get the job done.”

Joseph Parker

Parker also points out that, although organizations can order fights and promoters can make big announcements, it is Usyk who is in control in the heavyweight category.

If Parker defeats Wardley, Usyk could be forced to fight him if he wants to compete in the first part of 2026, as Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury seem unrealistic options until later in the year.

The fight against Wardley represents a great risk for Parker, not only because of the danger of the opponent, but also because he is at a crucial moment for his aspirations to be a two-time world champion. Fortunately, Parker has recent experience against boxers with great punching power.

Wardley, after being surpassed by Huni, connected a powerful right hand in the tenth round, which resulted in a knockout. The victory against Huni followed his victory over Frazer Clarke in October 2024.

“I don’t pretend to be like Usyk… someone with all the skills. But one thing I do know how to do is win,” Wardley declared after the fight with Huni.

Fabio Wardley

The fight between Parker and Wardley promises to be an exciting clash, with significant consequences for both boxers. A defeat could frustrate Parker’s hopes of facing Usyk, while a victory could force Usyk to give him a chance.