FABIO Wardley is still in need of an opponent for his first British heavyweight title defence.
The 28-year-old champion looked set to face mandatory challenger former Frazer Clarke. Purse bids for the fight were due earlier today but the former Olympic bronze medallist and his promoter Ben Shalom pulled out.
Prior to todayโs developments Wardleyโs promoter Eddie Hearn had mentioned two other future opponents. Solomon Dacres and David Adeleye. Dacres is also part of the Matchroom stable and the current English champion. Adeleye is promoted by Frank Warren.
During fight week activities for his last bout against Michael Polite Coffie both Wardley 16-0 (15) and Adeleye 11-0 (10) were filmed having a conversation that some may have thought was a confrontation. The contender appeared to be making a point, letting Wardley know that he was ready to fight him. Should the 26-year-old become the challenger then Wardley is happy to take him on.
โThat fight would gain interest and itโs definitely one of interest 1000 per cent. Itโs a definitely a fight Iโd take,โ Wardley told Boxing News.
โIt depends on what the [British Boxing] board do. Maybe they mandate them, maybe they donโt. Maybe the give me a voluntary, who knows. We kinda have to sit and wait for a little bit to see how things pan out. Canโt make any plans until we know what everyone around me is doing and weโll move from there. Itโs definitely on the cards and definitely something I want to do.โ