Fabio Wardley Steps Up: Vacates British Title for WBA World Championship Opportunity

Fabio Wardley, the undefeated heavyweight from Ipswich, has officially vacated his British heavyweight title to focus on a more prestigious challenge—the WBA regular title. Wardley is set to face Kubrat Pulev, a seasoned Bulgarian boxer, in what promises to be a pivotal match in his career.

Career Highlights and Upcoming Challenges

Wardley, who has a flawless professional record, won the British title by defeating Nathan Gorman in November 2022. He has successfully defended the title three times, including a notable victory over Olympic medallist Frazer Clarke in Riyadh last October. His decision to vacate the British title comes as he prepares to step onto the global stage against Pulev.

The Road to the WBA Title

The WBA has mandated that Pulev must defend his title against Wardley by April 4, 2024. The winner of this bout will then be required to defend the title against Michael Hunter, an American boxer with an impressive record of 24 wins, by October 25, 2024.

Impact on the British Boxing Scene

With Wardley moving on, the British heavyweight title is now up for grabs. David Adeleye and Jeamie Tshikeva are scheduled to compete for the vacant title in Manchester on April 5, 2024. Adeleye, who has only one loss in his professional career—a stoppage by Wardley in 2023—will be looking to reclaim his standing in the division.

Wardley's Unique Journey

Wardley's path to professional boxing is unconventional. Without an amateur background, he transitioned from a career as a recruitment consultant in the City of London to making his professional debut in April 2017. His rise in the sport has been meteoric, and this upcoming bout against Pulev could cement his place among the elite in heavyweight boxing.

Conclusion

As Wardley prepares for this significant challenge, the boxing world watches with anticipation. His journey from a novice to a world title contender is a testament to his dedication and skill. The upcoming bout against Pulev is not just a fight for a title but a chance for Wardley to make history.