Joseph Parker Questions Referee’s Decision in Heavyweight Clash with Fabio Wardley
Joseph Parker has voiced his concerns regarding the referee’s decision to stop his heavyweight bout against Fabio Wardley in the 11th round at London’s O2 Arena. The former WBO world champion believes he still had the capability to continue fighting when the match was halted. Parker, now holding a record of 36 wins (24 by knockout) and 4 losses, faced a stoppage defeat when Wardley unleashed a series of punches, prompting referee Howard Foster to intervene at 1:54 of the penultimate round.
In an interview with iFL TV following the fight, Parker expressed his disappointment, stating, “I still felt fine after the fight was stopped. I’m not the one to decide when the fight goes on or ends. He was tougher than I expected.” At the moment of the stoppage, Parker found himself backed against the ropes, trying to evade Wardley’s combinations but not responding with his own punches. The referee’s decision seemed to be a precautionary measure, as Parker had absorbed several unanswered blows.
Parker’s frustration was evident as he reacted strongly right after the fight, feeling that he hadn’t been seriously hurt. However, replays indicated that he had endured considerable punishment in the 10th round and was clearly slowing down. Despite the setback, Parker remains optimistic about a rematch with Wardley, stating, “I felt like I was controlling the fight, but I got hit with a big punch, and that’s it. I still feel I’ve got a lot to offer. There’s no point in crying about it — it won’t change anything. Let’s do a rematch; I’d love to do it again.”
Throughout the early rounds, Parker appeared composed and strategic, effectively utilizing his jab and timing. Many observers believed he was ahead in the scorecards during the first eight rounds, but as the fight progressed, Wardley’s youthful energy, speed, and relentless pressure began to take their toll. By the ninth round, Parker showed signs of fatigue, allowing Wardley, who remains unbeaten with a record of 21 fights (19 knockouts), to gain control.
In the 9th, 10th, and 11th rounds, Wardley landed heavy shots consistently, forcing Parker into a defensive stance. Wardley’s victory solidifies his rapid rise in the heavyweight division and enhances his reputation as one of boxing’s most formidable punchers. The 30-year-old is now expected to pursue a significant title opportunity, with speculation that he could face Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed championship as early as 2026.
As for Parker, a rematch may not be on the horizon in the immediate future. The former world champion will need to regroup and work his way back into contention if he hopes to secure another chance against Wardley or another high-profile opponent. Nevertheless, he remains determined, stating, “I’ve still got more to give. I love this sport, and I’ll come back stronger.”
This defeat marks a challenging chapter in Parker’s career, yet his resilience and professionalism have always been his hallmarks. While Wardley looks ahead to world title aspirations, Parker is focused on regrouping and demonstrating once again that he is one of the most tenacious heavyweights in the sport.
