Home Columns Don Charles heaps praise on Fabio Wardley’s remarkable rise

Don Charles heaps praise on Fabio Wardley’s remarkable rise

Don Charles praises Fabio Wardley’s journey

Don Charles has heaped praise on Fabio Wardley. Photo Credit: Leigh Dawney/ Queensberry
Don Charles has heaped praise on Fabio Wardley. Photo Credit: Leigh Dawney/ Queensberry

Don Charles has reflected on Fabio Wardley’s rise in the heavyweight division despite backing his rival Daniel Dubois.

Charles was in Dubois’ corner in May as ‘DDD’ dealt Wardley his first career loss.

With rumours of a potential rematch between Wardley and ‘DDD’ set for October, speaking to Boxnation, the 62-year-old was asked to reflect on the Ipswich-based fighter’s journey.

“He has got the wow factor. What that man has done, I have been fortunate enough to have known him from the beginning of his boxing career.

“When he first embarked as a professional fighter, I kind of became familiar with his journey.

Fabio Wardley's trainer has responded to criticism over not pulling him out against Daniel Dubois Photo Credit: Queensberry, Leigh Dawney
Fabio Wardley’s trainer has responded to criticism over not pulling him out against Daniel Dubois Photo Credit: Queensberry, Leigh Dawney

“It is remarkable what he has done. Even if he is honest, he won’t have digested it. There is no time for admiring what you have achieved.”

Wardley turned professional in 2017 after just a handful of white-collar bouts prior.

He went on a remarkable journey that may never be replicated, from an inexperienced white-collar fighter to heavyweight world champion.

Charles continued to emphasise just how incredible his story really is.

Wardley dropped Dubois twice Photo Credit: Queensberry, Leigh Dawney
Wardley dropped Dubois twice Photo Credit: Queensberry, Leigh Dawney

“What he has achieved to date is remarkable. I’m sure Netflix will be all over that, it’s the perfect story.

“It’s inspiring, but it just shows you what you can do when you really apply yourself. You can do anything.

“To become a world champion, where he has come from to where he is, it’s exceptional.”

The 31-year-old has some incredible wins, including victories over Justis Huni, Frazer Clarke and former world champion Joseph Parker, whom he stopped in the 11th round.

Fabio Wardley got the upset win over Joseph Parker Credit: Leigh Dawney/ Queensberry
Fabio Wardley got the upset win over Joseph Parker Credit: Leigh Dawney/ Queensberry

He would fall short for the first time in May, however, against Charles’ man, Dubois, and now looks towards a highly anticipated rematch.

It was reported by The Ring Magazine that the rematch will take place on October 17, once again at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester.

Charles was asked to reflect on the quick turnaround after such a brutal fight just five months prior to the rumoured date.

Fabio Wardley has activated his rematch clause to face Daniel Dubois Photo Credit: Fabio Wardley has activated his rematch clause to face Daniel Dubois Photo Credit: Queensberry, Leigh Dawney
Fabio Wardley has activated his rematch clause to face Daniel Dubois Photo Credit: Fabio Wardley has activated his rematch clause to face Daniel Dubois Photo Credit: Queensberry, Leigh Dawney

“Obviously, if that fight happens [Dubois rematch], we obviously want to retain that belt.

“That’s not my decision, that decision comes from Daniel and his team.

“They’re not foolish, they are a professional outfit.”

Finally, Charles once again heaped praise on Wardley’s career achievements and wished him all the best.

“I wish Fabio all the best. Should he go on to become a two-time or three-time world champion, who knows? This is Fabio Wardley.

“Even if he doesn’t replicate it, he has already done it. In history it will say Fabio Wardley was the WBO world champion and he should be so proud of himself.”