British heavyweight Fabio Wardley boasts a 95% knockout rate across his 18 wins.
Wardley secured a stunning 10th-round knockout victory against Justis Huni in Ipswich, England.
The dramatic, single-punch finish electrified the rain-soaked Portman Road crowd of approximately 20,000.
Despite home-crowd support, Wardley initially struggled to dominate the more technically skilled Huni.
Trailing on points and facing potential defeat, the 30-year-old Wardley unleashed a devastating right hand, flooring the 26-year-old Huni.
Promoter Frank Warren described the knockout as a “Deontay Wilder moment,” highlighting its power.
This victory marks Wardley’s 18th knockout in 19 professional fights, significantly boosting his world title aspirations.
Wardley acknowledged Huni’s skill, stating, “I know how to win fights, and that’s what I had to do tonight.”
“Justis Huni is a great operator. We had drilled the strategy extensively. My performance could have been better in several rounds,” he added.
With the upcoming Usyk-Dubois undisputed title fight in July, Wardley’s WBA number one ranking positions him favorably for a world title shot.
Huni, a late replacement for Jarrell Miller, suffered his first professional loss after 12 consecutive wins.
“That’s my curse. I even said before the fight, it only takes one second to switch off, and it happened tonight,” Huni reflected.
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Justis Huni delivered a compelling performance before the knockout.
The outdoor setting presented challenges, with heavy rain impacting spectators and media throughout the event.
Despite the downpour, the atmosphere intensified as Huni and Wardley entered the ring.
Wardley, illuminated by the floodlights, embraced the moment, a culmination of his professional boxing journey.
The initial rounds showcased a cautious exchange between both fighters.
Huni, possessing a strong amateur background, landed impactful punches in the third round.
Wardley, a latecomer to boxing with significant power, found Huni landing cleaner shots, notably the left hook.
Wardley’s limited experience beyond six-round fights began to show, his timing faltering under Huni’s pressure.
Just as defeat seemed imminent, Wardley’s incredible turnaround ignited the crowd.
Wardley’s victory provided a much-needed boost for Ipswich, following their football team’s relegation.
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Fan Reactions to Wardley’s Knockout Win
Wardley’s rapid rise is remarkable, especially considering his late start in boxing.
However, his struggles during the fight raise questions about his readiness for elite fighters like Usyk, Dubois, or Parker.
Despite this, Wardley’s undefeated record includes notable victories over David Adeleye and Frazer Clarke, and now Huni, all ending dramatically.
His knockout power makes him a dangerous opponent for any heavyweight.
Wardley will now enjoy a personal milestone, with his partner expecting their first child.
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