Undefeated Australian boxer Justis Huni is scheduled to challenge Fabio Wardley on English soil this Saturday. Huni is not planning a toe-to-toe slugfest; instead, he intends to rely on his boxing acumen and tactical approach to defeat the British fighter.
Fabio Wardley (record 18-0-1, 17 KOs) has long expressed a strong desire to fight at Portman Road, the home stadium of his beloved Ipswich Town Football Club, ever since he captured the British title in 2022. His wish is now coming true, as he is set to headline the first post-World War II boxing event held at the nearly 30,000-capacity venue.
This bout marks Wardley`s first appearance since relinquishing the Lonsdale Belt. The popular Ipswich native is aiming to make a significant impact on the international stage, especially given his current standing as the WBA`s top-ranked contender.
Initially, Wardley was slated to face the outspoken and potentially more high-profile American, Jarrell Miller. However, Miller`s injury has created this opportunity for Justis Huni (record 12-0, 7 KOs) to potentially disrupt Wardley`s celebratory homecoming and announce his own arrival as a serious contender in the heavyweight ranks.
Having accepted the fight on just five weeks` notice, Huni, who has been preparing at the SharpStyle Boxing Gym in Blackpool, stated he needs to embrace the atmosphere he expects to be loud and unwelcoming.
“I know it will be loud. I know many people will be against me, but ultimately, it will just be Fabio and me in that ring, and we have business to handle.”
“There`s no getting around the fact that I`m in enemy territory. It`s going to be loud, and I`m aware of that. They`re all there to support their guy for his homecoming party.”
“So, I believe the approach for me is simply to embrace it, soak it all in, and then go out there and execute my plan.”
Wardley must not underestimate his opponent, who boasts a strong amateur pedigree, including a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships and a planned appearance at the 2020 Olympic Games for Australia, which was thwarted by a hand injury.
Huni`s amateur background, contrasting with Wardley`s complete lack of amateur experience, suggests a clear strategic path for Huni. The 26-year-old confirmed he has no intention of being drawn into a slugfest with the powerful British boxer.
“That`s where he performs best, in a tough fight. It`s in those gritty exchanges where it`s a toss-up, and the opponent is standing there trying to trade blows with him. So, absolutely, I intend to utilize my boxing skills and simply outbox him.”
“There`s genuinely no need for me to stand [and trade punches] and risk getting caught by one of his heavy shots.”
“I will definitely be focused on boxing smartly and maintaining distance.”
