Fabio Wardley vs Frazer Clarke: The second biggest heavyweight title fight of the year

The boxing headlines for the first half of 2024 are set to be dominated by the upcoming bout between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury.

The long-awaited fight has taken the spotlight away from many other huge bouts - notably the British and Commonwealth heavyweight title fight which will take place in March.

Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke will meet in a huge clash on the 31st of March in London with the former's two belts being put on the line.

Fabio Wardley vs. Frazer Clarke Finalized For March 31 at O2 Arena https://t.co/SffmFJk9XN pic.twitter.com/cmPMRZsTgN

— BoxingScene.com (@boxingscene) February 3, 2024

There are similarities between the all-British meeting and the Usyk-Fury event as both feature unbeaten rivals going head-to-head in a winner-takes-all contest.

Here we will look at whose perfect record is most likely to be damaged following the event in early 2024, as well as the opportunities that could be awarded to the eventual winner.

Wardley is a strong favourite

Wardley is the younger of the two British boxers yet he has more experience under his belt and is expected to make it count in the capital.

He is the clear favourite across the oddsmakers featured on TheBettingSites.com including Bwin where he is offered at 1/2. The bookmaker comparison site has produced a Bwin registration guide that explains how new users can sign up to access the numerous boxing markets available.

Wardley is a strong pick to win the major fight for good reason. His most recent fight saw him beat a more proven unbeaten boxer compared to Clarke in David Adeleye - a former European heavyweight title holder.

Wardley's career record is also much superior to Clarke's. Wardley is on a 17-fight streak which has featured 16 knockouts, compared to his upcoming opponent's eight straight victories including six knockouts.

Success is the only option. pic.twitter.com/yWBAVnrLBP

— Fabio Wardley (@FabioWardley) February 12, 2024

Clarke should be respected as a formidable underdog, despite Wardley's greater experience and stronger knockout potential. The Burton-born fighter won Bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in the super heavyweight class, showing his ability to hold his own against the most powerful opponents.

Wardley may struggle to put Clarke away in the early rounds although his speed and relentless striking will likely ensure he gets the victory either via a knockout against his tired opponent late on or by a points decision.

The winner could open up legacy-defining doors

Wardley can take some crucial steps towards reaching the top level if he can return from his first double-title defence unscathed. He already holds the European title, and ensuring he retains his British and Commonwealth belts long-term could help his case to earn a shot at the world title in the future.

With him being three years younger than Clarke he also has much more time on his side to work his way up the pecking order within the professional heavyweight class.

If Clarke were to cause an upset by beating Wardley, then his victory would also open up doors. He could demand bigger fights as a national and Commonwealth title holder which could potentially help him work towards a shot at an international title - perhaps even a rematch with Wardley's WBO European title also on the line.

The biggest all-British fight of the year should ultimately not be missed by any boxing fan who is excited by the prospect of two hard-hitting opponents facing off with titles, legacies, and future opportunities on the line.