Kosport Magazine: Wardley and Clarke Fight to a Draw in Modern-Day Classic

British boxing was treated to a modern-day classic on Sunday as heavyweights Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke fought to a draw in a highly anticipated match. The fight, promoted by Ben Shalom, was hailed as a significant moment for British boxing in the face of competition from Saudi Arabia.

Traditionally, Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn have been the dominant promoters in British boxing. However, the lure of big money in Saudi Arabia has caused concern for the future of the sport in the UK. Even top British heavyweights like Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are choosing to fight in the Middle East rather than their home country.

But Wardley and Clarke’s fight served as a reminder of the talent and excitement that British boxing has to offer. Both fighters, who are compatriots of Fury and Joshua, put on a thrilling show that left fans on the edge of their seats.

The fight was a back-and-forth battle, with Wardley’s nose bleeding heavily from the third round and Clarke recovering from a knockdown in the fifth. In the end, the judges scored the fight a draw, with scores of 114-113, 112-115, and 113-113.

Shalom, who had delayed the fight for a year in the belief that Clarke needed more experience, was under pressure to deliver a memorable event. And he did just that, with the fight taking place at The O2, the biggest indoor arena in the UK, and drawing a passionate crowd.

“It was significant for British boxing…with everything going on in the Middle East,” Shalom said. “To have an atmosphere like that was special.”

He also believes that the Wardley-Clarke fight will be remembered for a long time to come. “As a fan, it was incredible,” he said. “No one can prepare for something like that. That was very, very unique. One of the best fights I’ve ever seen live.”

Shalom even went as far as to say that the fight was better than the last great British heavyweight showdown between Dillian Whyte and Anthony Joshua in 2015.

“It was Frazer’s to win,” he said. “A little more experience, and without the point deduction – he did get caught on that knockdown – then he does win the fight. It is his to win.”

This fight comes just two weeks after another entertaining draw between Brad Pauls and Nathan Heaney for the British middleweight title. Shalom, who is usually reserved, was among the crowd on their feet and passionately supporting Clarke in the later rounds.

“It was intense,” he said. “It was a crazy night. I’m close to Frazer, and it’s like what Fabio said – it’s a great fight for the fans, but when it’s someone you both care about, it’s a lot of punishment they’ve both taken. I’m in awe of both of them. Not many people do that for a living; they put it all on the line. Thank God they came out safe.”

Ultimately, the fight was a testament to the heart and determination of both fighters, and a reminder of the excitement and talent that British boxing has to offer. It was a night that will be remembered for years to come, and a true modern-day classic in the world of sports.