Fabio Wardley will be offered a route back to another world heavyweight title fight after his rematch defeat to Daniel Dubois. Wardley was unable to regain the WBO world title after he was stopped in the second round of his second fight with Dubois at The O2 on Saturday.
His manager Mike Ofo firmly believes that Wardley can challenge one of the other world champions after a "well-earned rest". Ofo told Sky Sports: "Fabio has had a remarkable run, and there is no doubt that he still has a bright future ahead of him. Now is the time for him to enjoy a well-earned rest, to recover and consider his options." He added: "I fully expect him to continue competing at the very highest levels of the sport and to win another world title if that is what he chooses to do."
Oleksandr Usyk's decision to vacate his world titles has opened up new opportunities, as Murat Gassiev holds a WBA title, Agit Kabayel is the WBC champion, and Filip Hrgovic holds the IBF belt. Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will also fight for the WBA 'super' title in Cardiff on December 11.
Promoter Frank Warren intends to steer Wardley back into world title contention. Warren said: "He's knocked over guys that have never been knocked over before. If he catches you, you're in trouble." He added that Wardley would likely take a warm-up fight before pursuing a title again. Wardley has reached the elite level despite turning professional after a spell as a 'white-collar fighter', and Warren believes his success story can have another chapter.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing