The heavyweight division is in turmoil, and Fabio Wardley’s stunning 11th-round knockout of Joseph Parker has thrown the entire landscape into question. With Wardley now holding the WBO 'interim' title and an undefeated record of 21-0-1 (19 KOs), the big question looms: What’s next for the heavyweight throne? But here’s where it gets controversial—will undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk even give Wardley the chance he’s craving? And this is the part most people miss: if Usyk dodges Wardley, the WBO could force him to vacate the title, potentially setting up a Wardley vs. Daniel Dubois showdown. Let’s break it down.
Usyk’s Next Move: Wardley or Walk Away?
Usyk’s dominance was on full display in July when he stopped Daniel Dubois to reclaim undisputed status. But just days later, the WBO ordered him to negotiate a defense against mandatory challenger Joseph Parker. A back injury delayed those talks, and now Wardley’s win complicates things further. Usyk recently hinted at retiring by 2025, but will he risk his legacy against the hard-hitting Wardley? If he doesn’t, the WBO’s ultimatum could shake up the division entirely. Is Usyk truly ready to face the new threat, or will he sidestep the challenge?
Anthony Joshua’s Return: Warm-Up or Comeback?
The boxing world is buzzing about Anthony Joshua’s return after his devastating 2024 knockout loss to Dubois. With elbow surgery behind him, Joshua’s camp hints at a December fight, possibly in California or Saudi Arabia. But here’s the twist: promoter Eddie Hearn suggests it could be a last-minute announcement, leaving fans guessing. Joshua’s dream of fighting in Africa might have to wait, but will his comeback be a stepping stone or a statement?
Moses Itauma’s Rise: Politics or Promise?
At just 20, Moses Itauma is Britain’s brightest heavyweight prospect, but his path is far from clear. After a first-round demolition of Dillian Whyte, Itauma was linked to big names like Filip Hrgovic and Michael Hunter. However, boxing politics struck when WBA 'regular' champion Kubrat Pulev was ordered to face him—only for Pulev to announce a different fight. Frank Warren insists Pulev must honor the order, but will Itauma’s momentum be stalled by red tape?
Tyson Fury’s Retirement: Real or Ruse?
Tyson Fury’s retirement after back-to-back losses to Usyk has been anything but straightforward. He’s teased comebacks, hinted at a Joshua fight, and then retracted. Yet, his presence ringside for Wardley’s win raises eyebrows. Is Fury truly done, or is he waiting for the right moment to reclaim the spotlight?
Controversial Question: Is the Heavyweight Division Stalling?
With Usyk’s injury, Joshua’s uncertainty, and Fury’s ambiguity, the division feels stuck. Wardley’s win should be a catalyst, but politics and egos might slow progress. Are we witnessing a golden era or a gridlock?
Your Turn: Who should Usyk fight next—Wardley, or someone else? And is Fury’s retirement for real? Sound off in the comments!
