Fabio Wardley has given an answer on a potential world heavyweight title defence against Tyson Fury.
Wardley became WBO heavyweight champion late last year after being elevated from interim status due to Oleksandr Usyk vacating the belt rather than facing his mandatory challenger.
It was a career-changing 2025 for the Ipswich man, first stopping Justis Huni in June, before then earning his biggest win to date with a come-from-behind knockout against Joseph Parker in October.
Attention has now turned to who Wardley will defend his WBO belt against, and he was called out over the weekend for a clash against Fury.
‘The Gypsy King’ hasn’t fought since back-to-back losses to Usyk in 2024, but he set to end his retirement during early 2026, and has declared his interest in taking on Wardley.
“Like I said, let’s see how I am looking in my return fight, then later in 2026 this would be a good option for me to try [and] become [three-time] heavyweight champion.
“[Fabio] has a hard fight himself coming up soon. I know the fight you guys all want but, at this time, I won’t say his name out of respect, as he is in mourning.
“But if he is not going to continue in boxing, I’d like Big Fab as a big test. This would be a massive spectacle!
Wardley has now responded on social media, confirming that he is more than happy to go ahead with the domestic showdown.
“All the best for the return big GK! See you soon. Wardley vs Fury. Summer 2026.”
It seems that the two men will have bouts against different opponents first, but provided they both win those, a Wardley vs. Fury fight could well be on the cards for later this year.
