Fabio Wardley (20-0-1, 19 KOs) could be tempted by a revenge mission if his first defence of the WBO heavyweight title does not come against Derek Chisora.
Chisora has emerged as the leading candidate for an all-British world title clash with the unbeaten Ipswich man, but with nothing yet confirmed there remains room for other heavyweight contenders to stake their claim.
One such name is Filip Hrgovic (19-1, 14 KOs). The 33-year-old Croat has rediscovered momentum after halting David Adeleye and Joe Joyce in successive outings — timely victories following his stoppage defeat to Daniel Dubois in June 2024.
Speaking to BoxNation in Germany following Agit Kabayel’s win over Damian Knyba, Hrgovic outlined why he believes Wardley would represent a winnable assignment.
“I have the best chin in the division. I proved that. He can’t knock me out and I think I’m the better fighter. I’m bigger, I’m better, more experienced and I believe I can beat him. He has a voluntary defence, so we’ll see what’s going to happen.”
Hrgovic then added an extra edge to his challenge by revisiting a sparring session between the pair several years ago.
“Last time when we sparred in Miami, he went to hospital after that sparring, but he was a beginner. It was like five years ago, without experience. Now he’s better, but I believe I can beat him.
“It’s a good opportunity for you to get revenge from that sparring in Miami — you remember? But you’re champion now. You choose what’s going to happen. So let’s see. But I know no one can stop me from becoming a world champion.”
With Wardley’s first defence yet to be finalised, the choice may come down to familiarity or unfinished business — and Hrgovic has made it clear he believes both favour him.
