The Anticipated Rematch: Clarke vs Wardley on AJ’s Undercard?
The rematch between British and Commonwealth heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley (17-0-1, 16 KOs) and Frazer Clarke (8-0-1, 6 KOs) is generating significant buzz in the boxing community. Their first encounter was an unforgettable all-British clash that left fans craving more. Now, there’s talk of their next bout potentially taking place on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s upcoming fight at Wembley Stadium in September.
Clarke’s Viewpoint: The Epic First Encounter
In March, Clarke and Wardley met in a battle for the ages at the O2 Arena. The 12-round showdown ended in a split decision draw with scores of 115-112 for Clarke, 114-113 for Wardley, and 113-113. Clarke faced significant adversity, including a fifth-round knockdown and a point deduction in the seventh for repeated low blows. Despite these setbacks, he fought valiantly to maintain his unbeaten record.
Reflecting on the fight, Clarke shared his optimism about a rematch. “I can’t tell you too much, but what I can tell you is there are deep conversations going on and it’s just the little nitty-gritty bit now,” Clarke told Sky Sports. “It shouldn’t be too long and I think we’re about there, and hopefully we’ll have good news for British fight fans. The general sense is everyone enjoyed it, so hopefully, we can give these guys entertainment once again.”
The Prospects of a Rematch with Wardley
Since their thrilling draw, discussions about a rematch have been persistent. With both fighters delivering such a compelling performance, the anticipation for Clarke vs Wardley II is palpable. The rematch could serve as a co-main event on the proposed September 21 undercard of Anthony Joshua’s next fight.
Clarke acknowledged the possibility, stating, “It’s definitely a possible option [on the AJ undercard], but I think we both did ourselves a favour in the performance last time where we both have options. That is definitely a massive one and may be a frontrunner, but we could headline our own show, we could go on an undercard – the possibilities are all there.”
Joshua’s Next Opponent: The Contenders
While the Clarke-Wardley rematch is highly anticipated, attention also turns to who Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs) will face next. The shortlist includes interim IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois (21-2, 20 KOs), Chinese southpaw Zhilei Zhang (27-2-1, 22 KOs), and former WBO champion Joseph Parker (35-3, 23 KOs). Dubois appears to be the frontrunner after his impressive victory over Filip Hrgovic (17-1, 14 KOs) in Saudi Arabia.
What’s Next for Clarke?
Regardless of whether he faces Wardley next, Clarke remains determined to challenge himself. “I’m open to options [if it isn’t Wardley next], but I think my days of fighting people who are turning up to survive are done,” he said. “I need a challenge, I need people who are coming to win, so I’m only looking up and that’s people who are ranked higher than me and I want to get right in that mix, and mix it with the best of them.”
With the heavyweight division bustling with activity, Clarke is eager to secure his next bout. “The division’s quite busy at the minute and I’ll have to see what everyone else does, but I’m ready to get ready to fight, so let’s just hope I get a date for myself soon. Whether that’s Fabio or not, I just want to be in competitive fights.”
In conclusion, boxing fans have much to look forward to, whether it’s the highly anticipated rematch between Clarke and Wardley or the unfolding drama of Joshua’s next opponent. The stage is set for an exciting summer of heavyweight action.
