Usyk's next fight taking shape: When and where he could face Wardley

Wardley secures a fight with Usyk

On Saturday, Fabio Wardley sensationally defeated Joseph Parker, capturing the WBO interim heavyweight title. In the 11th round, he managed to turn the fight around, unleashing a flurry of punches against the ropes and finishing the match early.

The victory guaranteed Wardley the next mandatory fight against Oleksandr Usyk, whom the WBO has obligated to face the winner of this bout. If Usyk refuses the fight, Wardley could become the full-fledged world champion.

Promoter announces the fight

Frank Warren stated at a press conference that negotiations for the bout have already begun.

"The fight [between Usyk and Wardley] has been ordered, so there will be a period of negotiations now. And if we can't reach an agreement, then it will go out for purse bids. I believe we will reach an agreement," the promoter said.

According to Warren, the fight is unlikely to happen before 2026. He considers March the optimal time and mentioned two possible locations – Riyadh or London.

"I'd love it to be in the UK, but there are only two places for this fight, and that's either in Riyadh or here in London, that's it. I'd do it at Wembley Stadium and it would be a sell-out," he added.

Wardley as the main contender and the fight's appeal

Warren highlighted that Fabio is one of the most marketable boxers of today.

In his previous fight in Ipswich, Wardley drew over 27,000 spectators to a football stadium in pouring rain, proving his popularity and ability to create spectacular bouts.

The British puncher, who started his career without any amateur experience, has repeatedly exceeded expectations by defeating strong opponents.

His ability to instantly change the course of a fight makes a bout with Usyk particularly intriguing.

Earlier, we reported that Oleksandr Usyk has risen in the historical ranking of European heavyweights.