Fabio Wardley ready to defend his WBO title against Tyson Fury

Fabio Wardley is ready to defend his WBO world title against Tyson Fury, saying he would be “extremely keen” to do it against the former world champion.

The Briton defeated Joseph Parker on October 25, 2025 and claimed the WBO interim heavyweight title, becoming the mandatory challenger against Oleksandr Usyk.

However, the Ukrainian decided to vacate his WBO belt instead of taking the challenge, and Wardley became the full-fledged champion and is looking for his first challenger in the new year.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Wardley, who is unbeaten, confirmed he is ready to face Fury in 2026.

“It was good [to be named on Tyson Fury’s hit list] because he was already on mine,” Wardley said.

“Look, it’s something I’d be really keen for because I’m not shying away from big fights. I haven’t got a world title just to take easy fights and hold onto it, and hide away with it.”

He added that he wants to fight with the biggest names out there, and he would be extremely keen to see if Fury is serious about it or not.

“I’m not going to run off with my belt and not offer it out to anyone. The biggest names out there are the guys I want to be in fights with,” he added.

“I think being open [to negotiations] might be a bit of an understatement. I’d be extremely keen to see if he’s genuine about it or not.”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury on Sunday announced his return to boxing, saying 2026 is his comeback year.

Fury announced his retirement following a defeat in a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024.

The Ukrainian won the first fight as well by split decision to become the undisputed champion. Usyk is the only boxer who has defeated Fury in the Briton's professional career, which consists of 34 wins, two losses, and one draw.