This summer will be a milestone for Fabio Wardley as he achieves his dream of fighting outdoors at Portman Road. A lifelong Ipswich Town supporter, Wardley will compete at the Premier League club`s stadium on June 7th against American boxer Jarrell Miller.
Wardley, a former British heavyweight titleholder, is currently the top contender in the WBA rankings. Miller is ranked fourth after recently moving up six places. The WBA Interim heavyweight title will be up for grabs in this match.
This event continues the trend of major British boxing matches being held in football stadiums. Last year, Daniel Dubois defended his IBF heavyweight title against Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium.
In another stadium boxing highlight, Chris Billam-Smith won the WBO cruiserweight championship in 2023 at Bournemouth AFC`s Vitality Stadium. Other famous football grounds like Old Trafford, Elland Road, Goodison Park, and Hampden Park have also hosted significant boxing events.
Wardley, boasting an undefeated record of 18 wins, 1 draw, and 17 knockouts, will face his toughest opponent yet in Miller, whose record is 26 wins, 1 loss, 2 draws, and 22 knockouts. Miller has recently fought against top-level boxers, including a draw with Andy Ruiz Jr. in August 2024 and a loss to Daniel Dubois in December 2023.
Miller was scheduled to fight Anthony Joshua for world heavyweight titles at Madison Square Garden six years ago. However, the fight was cancelled due to Miller failing multiple drug tests. He tested positive for banned substances in March and June 2019 and was subsequently suspended.
Wardley`s previous year was remarkable, featuring a Fight of the Year contender against Frazer Clarke in March, followed by a quick first-round knockout victory in their rematch in October. Their first fight was a grueling draw, while Wardley dominated the second.
Facing Miller is a crucial step up for Wardley as he aims for a world title shot. This fight against Miller represents a significant increase in competition, but Wardley will have the support of his home crowd at Portman Road.
