Boxing
Fabio Wardley reveals the 'green light' moment in his inspirational boxing journey
Watch Wardley vs Huni tonight live on DAZN
Fabio Wardley's has singled out the English heavyweight title fight with Simon Valilly five years ago as the moment he realised there was some potential in his boxing career.
Tonight, Wardley continues his inspirational journey when he headlines Portman Road, the home of Ipswich Town Football Club, against Justis Huni in an intriguing heavyweight contest live on DAZN.
Turning professional after learning his trade on the white collar boxing circuit, the early stages of Wardley's career were met with skepticism with no amateur background meaning he was always searching for a form of validation.
Speaking in an interview with DAZN's Ade Oladipo, Wardley reflected on his rise to world title contender and explained why his win over Vallily at Matchroom's HQ in Brentwood gave him the validation he needed to continue his life as a pro boxer.
"I’ve always had really high expectations of myself," Wardley said.
"I’d call it more validation; it was probably the Simon Vallily fight. Knowing him, knowing his background, knowing his history, Commonwealth games gold medallist, strong amateur, strong pedigree.
"At that point in my career, a big step up, one that everyone thought is maybe a step too far because this guy’s too cute, too clean, knows his stuff. I stopped him in three rounds, and I was really happy with my performance.
"It was for the English title, I won my first belt, again that was another milestone."
With a British heavyweight title on his resume, a win for Wardley would see him crowned WBA interim heavyweight champion meaning he will be in contention for a world title shot and continue this unique rise to the division's top table.
Watch Fabio Wardley vs Justis Huni on DAZN with a discounted special offer subscription price. More information here.
