Derek Chisora has given his prediction for Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley
Chisora has fought Parker twice and sparred Wardley multiple times.
Ahead of this weekend’s clash at the O2 Arena, Wardley looks to overtake Parker as the frontrunner for a shot at Oleksandr Usyk’s belts.
Wardley started his career fighting on the white-collar scene in Ipswich, having four bouts before turning professional in 2017.
The 30-year-old recalled watching upcoming opponent Parker in a pub without any incline he would go on to face the New Zealander.
Chisora spoke to The Sun Sport where he recalled his experiences with the former white-collar fighter.
“I’ve shared the ring so many times with Fabio. He’s come to Rotherham to spar me like for a week and with Don Charles in Finchley.
“I can’t sit here trying to knock Fabio, because this is what Rocky film is about.
“You remember when Rocky was trying it and then suddenly he blew up? That’s exactly what Fabio’s done, and now he’s fighting for the eliminator for the WBO title.
“So trying to knock him down is pointless, he’s done amazing for himself and his family.”
Wardley has an impressive resume with 18 knockouts coming from his 19 wins, only seeing the final bell twice in his career; in fights with Frazer Clarke & Jakub Wojcik in his professional debut.
He has actually boxed 180 less rounds in his career than Parker but that hasn’t swayed ‘Del Boy’s’ prediction.
“I’m going Fabio. First three rounds and he’s going to knock him out. There you go.”
A win for Wardley would be massive, putting him on the cusp of a world title shot, he is currently the WBA champion. And would’ve defeated Usyk’s WBO mandatory challenger, Parker.
Parker became WBO interim champion in 2023, defeating Zhilei Zhang in a tough back-and-forth fight.
Usyk’s return is expected to come in 2026 after confirming his intention’s to continue boxing.
Speaking to Ready To Fight, the 38-year-old said: “I’ll fight until I’m 41 then I’ll build a sports academy, next year [I will fight] and God willing I’ll win.”
