Joseph Parker will put his interim WBO heavyweight title on the line on Saturday night as he faces Fabio Wardley at London’s O2 Arena.
It is something of a risk for the New Zealander, who could have simply waited for Usyk to return to fitness but now faces the prospect of potentially losing his prominent place in the heavyweight title queue if he isn’t careful with a dangerous test awaiting this weekend.
He will have his heart set on facing Usyk should he upset Parker this weekend, having become his mandatory challenger with the WBA.
This is Parker’s first outing since February, when he knocked out Martin Bakole inside two rounds in Riyadh after the latter was called in late as a replacement for then IBF champion Daniel Dubois.
Parker vs Wardley fight date and venue
Parker vs Wardley will take place on Saturday October 25, 2025 at London’s O2 Arena.
The main card is expected to begin at around 7pm BST, with early build-up fights from approximately 4pm.
Contenders: Parker and Wardley will both have their sights set on facing undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk
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Parker vs Wardley fight time and ring walks
Ring walks for the main event are expected at around 10.30pm BST. As ever, the exact timings are subject to change.
How to watch Parker vs Wardley
TV channel and live stream: Parker vs Wardley will be broadcast exclusively live in the UK on DAZN pay-per-view.
A pay-per-view pass will cost £24.99, and comes with seven days of free access to DAZN.
The pay-per-view pass is available for free with an annual subscription, worth £14.99 per month.
Live blog: You can also follow the action on Saturday night with Standard Sport’s live blog.
Parker vs Wardley undercard
Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley (WBO interim heavyweight title, heavyweight, 12 rounds)
Steed Woodall vs Ezra Taylor (British light-heavyweight title, 12 rounds)
Juergen Uldedaj vs Rolly Lambert Fogoum (Cruiserweight, 12 rounds)
Danny Quartermaine vs Royston Barney-Smith (Super-featherweight, 10 rounds)
Mitchell Smith vs Arnie Dawson (Lightweight, 10 rounds)
Parker vs Wardley prediction
Parker comes into this fight with an awful lot to lose. He has taken a big risk by agreeing to face Wardley, and could face a massive career setback should he suffer defeat.
But as far as he is concerned, that is not an option. Parker will have been a keen viewer of Wardley’s most recent bout against Huni, where he was beyond lucky to escape with a win.
Parker will be all too aware of Wardley’s weaknesses and his own status as an interim champion. He should have no issue retaining his belt.
Parker vs Wardley weigh-in
The weigh-ins for Saturday’s event take place on Friday. Check back in then for the results.
Parker vs Wardley latest odds
Parker to win by decision: 2/1
Wardley to win by decision: 10/1
Parker to win by KO/TKO: 10/11
Wardley to win by KO/TKO: 4/1
Odds via Betfair (subject to change).
