Fabio Wardley produced the biggest win of his career by knocking out Joseph Parker in the 11th round at the O2 Arena, earning a world title shot against Oleksandr Usyk. The British heavyweight, who started in white-collar boxing, weathered heavy punches from the former world champion before forcing a stoppage from referee Howard Foster.
Parker, who had been ordered by the WBO to face Usyk, put his mandatory challenger status on the line. The New Zealander appeared in control for much of the fight, but Wardley's relentless pressure paid off when a huge right hand wobbled Parker in the 11th, followed by a flurry that ended the contest.
The Ipswich-born fighter had previously scored a dramatic 10th-round knockout against Justis Huni in June. The victory sets up a clash with undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, scheduled for 2026. Ringside spectators included Tyson Fury, Daniel Dubois and Moses Itauma.
In the co-feature, Derek Chisora and Dillian Whyte announced a December 13 fight at Co-op Live in Manchester. Chisora, 41, confirmed the bout will happen if the contract is satisfactory, promising an explosive encounter.
