Wardley Sets Sights on Fury for the WBO Belt: A 2026 British Showdown?

Wardley Eyes Fury for WBO Title

Fabio Wardley, the reigning WBO heavyweight champion, welcomed a potential showdown with Tyson Fury after Fury publicly announced his return to the ring following retirement. Wardley would seize the chance to defend his belt against one of the sport’s biggest names, setting up a blockbuster British clash.

Wardley won the WBO belt after Oleksandr Usyk relinquished the title when a ruling pushed him toward a mandatory defense against a top challenger. The development cleared the way for Fury’s comeback and a possible unification moment in heavyweight boxing.

Meanwhile, Fury confirmed his comeback on Sunday and quickly drew Wardley into the conversation. The Gypsy King mentioned Wardley among a list of potential opponents on social media, signaling that the fight is on his radar as he returns to the sport.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Wardley, who remains undefeated in his professional career, expressed strong interest in facing Fury in 2026. He framed the bout as a big challenge and emphasized that he is not afraid of big names or big stages.

Wardley said that it was refreshing to see Fury included in his list of potential opponents because he has always been in mind. This does not change anything for me.

He added that he is genuinely excited for this fight. He did not win a world title to take easy routes or cling to the belt. He wants the best, not the easiest path.

He continued that he is open to negotiations and curious to see how serious Fury is about this. If the two sides get serious, they will talk business and make it happen.

With his confidence growing, Wardley warned that Fury might underestimate a hungry champion. He said that Fury could see this as a soft comeback, win one fight, and grab the title, but many fighters have learned Wardley’s style is tougher than it looks.

Wardley asserted faith in his own abilities against any heavyweight. He said he has proven he can beat anyone in this division and is ready for whatever the night demands, from the early rounds to the final bell. He said he never quits before the final bell.

Fury’s Instagram reaction to Wardley’s mention came with a line about checking his own form when he returns, adding spice to a conversation that has captured fans’ attention. A potential British showdown would be a talking point across the boxing world and among fans in the UK.

Beyond Fury, Wardley’s name has also been linked to a possible British rivalry with Derek Chisora. The veteran is planning what could be his 50th and final fight, and Wardley said he would welcome a British clash that would attract a wide audience.

“It would be a brilliant headline for British boxing,” Wardley said, while also noting that he watches fights as a fan and often asks himself whether he would be drawn to this matchup if he were sitting on the sofa. He added that it is unusual to see his name paired with Chisora and think the style would be entertaining.

He closed by praising Chisora’s career and suggesting that a 50th fight could be a fitting, dramatic farewell, even as he maintained a pragmatic stance about negotiations and potential opponents. He added that if a fight makes sense, it makes sense for the sport and the fans.

Punchline 1: If Wardley fights Fury, the popcorn will need a referee because the fight could be over before the first punchline lands.

Punchline 2: Fury returns, Wardley rises, and this clash might be so heavy that even the headlines will need a seatbelt.