Heavyweight Showdown: Fabio Wardley vs. Frazer Clarke Set for Explosive Rematch on Joshua’s Wembley Card
Eddie Hearn has stirred the excitement pot by hinting at Anthony Joshua’s return for his second fight of the year, potentially on September 21 at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium. While fans eagerly anticipate who will face Joshua, the undercard promises to steal some of the spotlight. Reports indicate that heavyweights Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke might face off once again, reigniting the fire from their previous clash.
A Grudge Match for the Ages
The last time Wardley and Clarke met at the O2 Arena, the stakes were high with Wardley’s British, Commonwealth, and WBO European heavyweight titles on the line. The bout was a brutal, bloody affair that went the distance, leaving Wardley with a broken nose and Clarke equally battered. Their rematch could be the highlight of the Riyadh Season show, bringing together two of the division’s most thrilling prospects for another intense battle.
“What’s the latest with the Wardley versus Clark rematch?”
The Build-Up: From Tensions to Talks
Ben Shalom, CEO of BOXXER and promoter for Frazer Clarke, recently sat down with Ayman Khan from ‘Seconds Out’ to discuss the highly anticipated rematch. Khan probed Shalom on the latest developments, particularly with rumors swirling about Fabio Wardley potentially joining Queensbury Promotions. Shalom confirmed the possibility of the rematch taking place on the Joshua undercard at Wembley, though he noted some hurdles still needed clearing.
“Yeah, I think I’m the same look we’d have loved to. I can’t lie, we’d have loved to do that um rematch and we were hoping to do it at the end of August um, and yeah, for whatever reason it hasn’t happened, but there’s potential, I hear, for it to go on the Saudi card on September 21st, which is another great option,” he revealed.
A Match in the Making
Clarke, a Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist, has been vocal about his desire for a rematch. Despite the uncertainties, he remains optimistic. “Big Fraze” is even open to an interim bout before facing Wardley again to ensure they finally settle their unfinished business. Shalom echoed Clarke’s sentiments, expressing a strong desire to see the rematch but acknowledging the complexities involved in making it happen.
Alternative Plans
Although the initial plan was to schedule the rematch for the end of August, logistical challenges have pushed the potential date to September 21, coinciding with Anthony Joshua’s return. Shalom mentioned that this date, part of the Riyadh Season card, would be a fantastic alternative, providing a grand stage for Wardley and Clarke to resume their rivalry.
Rising Stocks After a Savage Battle
The March encounter between Wardley and Clarke was a savage showdown that significantly boosted both fighters’ profiles. Wardley, despite retaining his belts, has yet to break into the top ten heavyweight rankings. For him, a decisive victory in the rematch is crucial to advancing his career and securing a title shot. Clarke, turning 33 in September, is acutely aware that time is against him. A win over Wardley could propel him up the rankings, making this rematch a pivotal moment in both their careers.
The Path Forward: From Drawn to Determined
Both fighters have everything to gain and much to lose in their anticipated rematch. For Wardley, a clear win is essential to validate his status as a top contender. Clarke, relatively inexperienced but determined, views this fight as his ticket to prominence. The heavyweight division is on notice, as these two warriors prepare to lock horns once again.
Editor’s Insight
The rematch between Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke is more than just a fight; it’s a narrative of unfinished business, personal pride, and career-defining moments. Their first bout left fans craving more, and this upcoming clash promises to deliver the drama and intensity boxing enthusiasts live for. As these two heavyweights prepare to step back into the ring, the stakes have never been higher, and the anticipation is palpable.
As the countdown to September 21 continues, the boxing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the saga of Wardley vs. Clarke. Their rematch promises to be a bout for the ages, a clash of titans that will leave an indelible mark on the sport.