A second press conference for Fabio Wardley’s upcoming fight was held today. This followed the withdrawal of his original opponent, Jarrell Miller, who suffered a shoulder injury.

Stepping in on short notice, Australia’s Justis Huni has taken up the challenge, aiming to spoil Wardley’s big night at Portman Road, home of Ipswich Town F.C.

The fight is scheduled for June 7, but Wardley remains unfazed by the late change.

‘Change of opponent, same venue, same occasion, and for me, it will be the same outcome,” Wardley told the media at the presser.

‘Look, it’s the homecoming I’ve been asking for, for a very long time. We had a go the first time around with Miller, who unfortunately had to pull out, but me, Frank [Warren], and the team have pulled the cat out of the bag and got another great contender.

‘[Huni’s] number 1 with the WBO, me [number 1] with the WBA, so it’s basically number 1 vs number 1, just without the belts. The winner will go on to have a chance to put their hands on those belts.’

Huni’s Quiet Confidence

While Wardley embraces the occasion, Huni appeared laid-back, steering clear of the promotional hype.

‘This is my coming-out party to show the world who I am. What better way to do it than on a massive stage like this in Fabio’s hometown? I’m coming here to bring an upset, and I can’t wait to get in there and put on a show for all the fight fans and everyone tuning in.’

Eddie Hearn Adds to the Drama

Ever the showman, Eddie Hearn couldn’t resist drawing comparisons to an infamous fight from six years ago, when Jarrell Miller pulled out against Anthony Joshua, leading to Joshua’s shocking loss to late replacement Andy Ruiz.

Hearn suggested history could repeat itself, with his fighter, Justis Huni, pulling off the upset. In his usual comedic style, he also took a playful jab at Frank Warren, stating:

‘Frank Warren doesn’t make mistakes, but he has this time.’

Michael Ofo Fires Back

Wardley’s manager, Michael Ofo, had plenty to say. Unbothered by Hearn’s banter, Ofo made it clear that his rise in the sport has come through hard work and graft, not privilege.

Throwing in a subtle dig, Ofo remarked:

‘I didn’t get everything handed to me by my Daddy.’

Dillian Whyte’s Return

Also making an appearance on the card is Dillian Whyte, after a gym injury forced him out of his scheduled fight with Joe Joyce in April.

Whyte played a major role in Wardley’s early career, helping him secure fights and mentoring him along the way. Now, with the roles reversed, Whyte will be fighting on Wardley’s undercard.

‘I’m happy to be on Fabio’s show this time around,’ Whyte said.

A Tough Test for Wardley

Despite Huni’s lack of professional experience, his amateur pedigree makes him a dangerous opponent. His technical boxing and movement could cause problems for Wardley, but fighting in front of his hometown crowd might give Wardley the extra push he needs to get the job done.

Images: Queensberry