Wardley becomes WBO mandatory challenger to Usyk after Parker fight

Fabio Wardley earned a shot at unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk after forcing an 11th-round stoppage of Joseph Parker at London’s O2 Arena on October 25, claiming the WBO interim heavyweight title and becoming the WBO mandatory challenger. The stoppage elevated Wardley to the front of the line for a potential undisputed title fight and prompted immediate negotiations between the fighters’ camps.

Promoter Frank Warren said talks are under way and that Usyk is required to defend his WBO belt against Wardley. "At the moment, the deal is Usyk has to defend his WBO title against Fabio, we are in negotiations," Warren told assembled media, adding that if terms cannot be agreed the contest will go to purse bids that will determine venue and date. Warren has suggested March as a possible target and named London’s Wembley Stadium or Riyadh as potential sites.

Wardley, who improved his record to 19-0 with 18 knockouts, acknowledged the significance of the win while expressing openness to a rematch with Parker. "I'd happily welcome the rematch," he said, and added that his immediate focus is on fulfilling his mandatory position. Parker, who had been ahead on two judges’...