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Wardley Stops Parker in 11th to Win WBO Interim Belt, Puts Usyk on Notice

The upset elevates Wardley to interim champion status, positioning him as Usyk’s likely mandatory pending a WBO ruling.

Overview

  • Referee Howard Foster halted the bout in Round 11 with Parker on the ropes, a decision questioned by some observers and defended by Derek Chisora, while Parker said he felt able to continue.
  • Official scorecards released after the fight showed Parker leading 98-92 and 96-94 with the third card 95-95 through 10 rounds, underscoring Wardley’s late turnaround.
  • Promoter Frank Warren said Wardley should face Usyk for all four belts next, though the WBO has not yet issued updated instructions on the champion’s mandatory defense.
  • Wardley called out Usyk in his post-fight remarks and now holds the WBO interim title after adding another late stoppage to a resume that includes a 10th-round KO of Justis Huni.
  • Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois watched ringside as Wardley extended his unbeaten run, with potential outcomes now hinging on whether the WBO orders Usyk to defend or vacate.