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FABIO WARDLEY is prepared for a passing of the British heavyweight torch against Anthony Joshua – but a victory would be tinged with bittersweet emotions.

Promoter Frank Warren has previously shared the same coach.

Fabio Wardley poses with his WBO belt after his win against Joseph Parker.Fabio Wardley is the WBO heavyweight world championCredit: Reuters Anthony Joshua in the boxing ring after defeating Jermaine Franklin.Anthony Joshua could fight WardleyCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun

Wardley expressed that this matchup has all the elements of an exciting Best of British clash.

He told SunSport in Dubai: “It would mean a lot of things, to be honest.

“He is a former gym-mate, a past stable-mate, someone I have been around and admired even before I put on a pair of gloves.

“He is someone I have always followed in boxing, and he has contributed tremendously to the sport.

“So, sharing the ring with him for a world title would be significant, and as you mentioned, it would symbolize a passing of the torch.”

Wardley began boxing at the age of 20, turning professional after participating in four white-collar bouts.

At that time, Joshua was the unified heavyweight world champion and one of the reasons Wardley decided to pursue boxing.

He remarked: “Especially during the early stages of what he was doing for boxing, he made it more global, glamorous, and exciting.

“He brought drama back to the boxing scene, which definitely drew me in.”

Wardley acknowledges that if he were to defeat Joshua and send him into retirement, it would be a bittersweet victory.

He stated: “Don’t get me wrong, he doesn’t have 20 fights left in his career, so it’s not like I’m cutting his career short.

“He has had an incredible career, so it would be an honor for him to go out fighting against me.”

Joshua, 36, has yet to return since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, 28, in September 2024 at Wembley.

Meanwhile, Wardley, 30, won the interim WBO title against Joseph Parker, 33, in October before being elevated.

All eyes will be on the surprising showdown with 28-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.

However, Wardley will not be setting his alarm to watch it in the early hours.

He smiled and said: “I don’t think it's one I need to set my alarm for. I believe it’s a done deal, and we all have a good idea of how it will turn out.”

Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua face off at a press conference.Jake Paul facing off with Anthony JoshuaCredit: Getty

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Fabio Wardley think about fighting Anthony Joshua?

Fabio Wardley believes that fighting Anthony Joshua would be a significant moment in his career, symbolizing a passing of the torch in British heavyweight boxing.

How did Fabio Wardley start his boxing career?

Fabio Wardley began boxing at the age of 20, turning professional after competing in four white-collar bouts.

What is Wardley's opinion on Joshua's career?

Wardley respects Joshua's career and acknowledges that defeating him would be bittersweet, as Joshua has had an incredible impact on the sport of boxing.