UFC 321 – Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley: Preview & Betting Tips

The heavyweight division is set for another explosive night when Joseph Parker faces Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena in London.

Parker (36-3, 24 KO’s) has been a constant in the heavyweight scene for over a decade. The 32-year-old Kiwi captured the WBO title in 2016 and has shared the ring with some of the division’s best: Anthony Joshua, Dillian Whyte, Derek Chisora, and Deontay Wilder among them. After a few setbacks, Parker has rediscovered top form. 

Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KO’s), the 30-year-old from Ipswich, made his name with devastating knockout power and a fearless fighting style. His meteoric rise from white-collar boxing to heavyweight contender has captured the UK fans’ attention.

Tale of the Tape 

Joseph Parker – Odds 1.22 

Record: 36-3, 24 KO’s

Age: 33

Height: 6ft4

Reach: 76”

Wright: Heavyweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

Fabio Wardley – Odds 4.00 

Record: 19-0-1, 18 KO’s

Age: 30

Height: 6ft5

Reach: 78”

Weight: Heavyweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley: Analysis

Parker has spoken about treating this fight as if it were a world title defence, fully aware that a dominant win could position him for another shot at Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed champion. He’s calm, seasoned, and has the composure of a man who’s been under the brightest lights before.

Wardley holds the British and European heavyweight titles and now steps into his biggest test to date. For him, Parker represents the kind of elite, well-schooled opponent that could either expose his inexperience or announce his arrival onto the world stage.

The New Zealander must use his experience to neutralise Wardley’s aggression. He’ll need to establish his jab early, work from mid-range, and drag the younger man into deep waters. Parker’s improved composure and timing, evident in his recent wins, could allow him to break Wardley down gradually.Wardley’s best chance lies in making this a firefight. He can’t allow Parker to dictate the tempo.

Fast starts, sharp combinations, and body attacks will be key. If he lands cleanly early, he has the power to end it in spectacular fashion. But against a veteran like Parker, overcommitting could be dangerous as Parker is known for his sharp counters and granite chin.

Parker vs Wardley: Prediction & Betting Tips

I thoroughly expect an explosive opening few rounds, with Wardley pressing the action and looking to land big shots. Parker will weather that storm, use his jab to control distance, and start countering effectively. 

As the fight enters the later stages, Wardley’s inexperience over 12 rounds could show. Wardley’s power keeps it dangerous throughout, but Parker’s ring IQ, conditioning, and experience should ultimately see him through. Parker by stoppage or a win on points looks the most logical route, though if you fancy drama, a Wardley knockout in the first half of the fight offers serious value at 10.00.

But my pick is Joseph Parker to win in rounds 7-12 at odds of 3.75.