Fabio Wardley is keeping a close eye on Saturday’s heavyweight world title fight between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker.
Dubois defends his IBF heavyweight crown against former titlist, Parker at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on the undercard of the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol.
Wardley, like his rivals, is part of Frank Warren’s Queensberry stable and is ranked at #11 with the IBF and says he is targeting a future shot at the winner.
“Yeah, look, anyone holding on to a world title is someone I’m keeping one eye on,” the 30-year-old told Boxing Scene.
“If it goes to Daniel [Dubois] and then shifts to Parker, although I like him, my focus will shift to being on him.
“So, yeah, that’s the ultimate goal for me. So whoever it is, I welcome it. It’s not a problem.
“I think this year, especially, is about being in the right position.
“That’s why we’re not trying to jump at anything too quickly, put ourselves in any holes too quick or do ourselves out.
“We’re just trying to wait, see how the landscape falls and then pick our moment.”
The Ipswich man was last out in October, destroying Frazer Clarke in the opening round of their rematch in Riyadh, almost seven months after the pair were held to a split decision draw.
Dubois, who knocked out Anthony Joshua in five rounds at Wembley Stadium in September is the betting favourite to retain his title over the New Zealander, however Wardley, undefeated in 19 fights, is backing Parker to pull off the upset.
“Yeah, it’s a great fight,” the 30-year-old added.
“Two guys who are in form, dangerous, can really put their punches together.
“It’s going to be a great one to watch.
“I’m probably… don’t get me wrong, it’s a very tight, very 50-50 fight, but I’m probably edging it to Parker.
“A bit of my bias is probably coming out.
“He’s someone I know better, I’ve got on better with.
“He’s a really nice, genuine, cool guy.
“So he’s someone I’d like to see win and do well.”
