Kubrat Pulev has been ordered to defend his WBA world heavyweight title towards British challenger Fabio Wardley.
Wardley is the No 1 contender within the WBA rankings after extending his 19-fight unbeaten file with a first-round knockout win over Frazer Clarke of their rematch in October.
The Ipswich fighter had put himself ahead as a possible challenger for IBF title holder Daniel Dubois earlier within the 12 months, however Wardley will now obtain his first world title bout towards Pulev.
Oleksandr Usyk, who holds the WBC and WBO belts, can also be recognised because the WBA ‘tremendous’ champion, whereas Pulev holds a WBA title following a factors win over Mahmoud Charr in December.
The Bulgarian is a well-known face in Britain as he challenged Anthony Joshua for the WBA and IBF belts in 2020, struggling a ninth-round stoppage loss, after which was edged out on factors by Derek Chisora two years later.
However Pulev has since rebuilt with two victories earlier than a unanimous resolution win over Charr in Sofia.
Please use Chrome browser for a extra accessible video participant
Watch the Sky Sports activities commentators react reside to Wardley’s unbelievable first-round knockout win over Clarke
Wardley has boosted his rising status in recent times with explosive knockout wins over Nathan Gorman and David Adeleye, two British rivals.
Clarke battled to a draw with Wardley of their first combat final March, however the Olympic bronze medallist was ruthlessly stopped in a blistering opening spherical of their rematch.
Watch Natasha Jonas combat Lauren Value on the Royal Albert Corridor reside on Sky Sports activities on Friday March 7
