Ipswich recently played host to a highly dramatic moment in the boxing calendar when Fabio Wardley delivered a decisive knockout blow to Justis Huni. At the time of the stoppage, Huni had been leading on the scorecards. Now, the Australian boxer has stated he would `love a rematch` following the defeat.
Stepping in on just five weeks` notice after Jarrell Miller withdrew, Huni (12-1, 7 KOs) agreed to face Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KOs). The Queensland native traveled across the globe to take on Wardley in his home territory, aiming for an upset victory.
For much of the fight, this risk seemed to be paying off. Huni effectively outboxed the British fighter, landing numerous notable shots and establishing a significant lead on the judges` scorecards. He appeared to be cruising towards a surprising win away from home.
However, in the tenth round, Wardley landed a clean punch on Huni`s temple, dramatically changing the course of the fight. This moment at Portman Road served as a reminder to boxing fans worldwide of the exciting unpredictability that defines the heavyweight division.
A swift and conclusive count followed the knockdown, a decision that displeased Huni’s manager, Mick Francis. Wardley was declared the sensational winner, a victory that positions him for potential future opportunities on the path to world honours.
Despite the outcome, Huni issued a press release through Tasman Fighters expressing his desire for a rematch. He suggested that facing Wardley again, but this time with a full training camp behind him, could lead to a different result.
“I`m absolutely gutted,” Huni stated.
He continued, “I felt like I was doing everything right, just boxing smart and sticking to the plan. I got caught — it happens in this sport. Congratulations to Fabio. He’s a warrior and he found the shot he needed. But this isn’t the end for me — not even close. I would absolutely love a rematch. I stepped up at short notice.”
Meanwhile, Huni`s manager, Mick Francis, commented that he was surprised by referee John Latham`s count.
“With total respect to the referee, we were surprised Justis wasn’t given the full ten-count,” Francis said.
He added, “I feel like he should be given every right to try and continue. But the safety of the fighter comes first, and we respect the decision.”
Despite the abrupt manner in which the fight concluded for Huni, a rematch appears unlikely in the immediate future. Wardley`s recent victory earned him the WBA Interim heavyweight championship, shifting his focus.
The Suffolk-based knockout artist seems to have his sights set on the upcoming summer bout between Kubrat Pulev and Michael Hunter. Wardley likely intends to challenge the winner of that match for the WBA (Regular) world title, aiming to position himself for a shot at the full world title sometime in 2026.
