The pair will do battle at the famous old football stadium with the interim WBA heavyweight title on the line, with undefeated Englishman Wardley taking on American powerhouse Miller in the biggest fight in Wardley’s career to date.
Wardley earned this opportunity with a first-round demolition of Frazer Clarke in Riyadh, Saudi Arabiam and underscored his improvement after the pair had previously fought to a draw in March last year in a Fight of the Year battle.
Now Wardley finds himself ranked at number one by the WBA, as well as number three with the WBO and WBC, and number eight with the IBF. Ring Magazine has Wardley listed ninth in their heavyweight list.
He’ll look to bridge the gap from contender to champion as he takes on 29-fight veteran Miller, whose last title tilt saw him stopped in the 10th round by current IBF world champion Daniel Dubois.
More recently, Miller fought to a majority draw with former unified world champion Andy Ruiz in August.
“On a personal note, it is a huge pleasure for me to deliver Fabio his dream of fighting at Portman Road,” said Wardley’s promoter and head of Queensberry Promotions, Frank Warren.
“It is what he has spoken about from day one of our alliance and I know how much Ipswich Town means to him.
“I believe this is the perfect fight for Fabio to take his next step because Miller is no easy pickings for anyone, especially given his size and front foot style. Fabio really is ‘Running Towards Adversity!'”
“As a proud Tractor Boy, born and bred in Ipswich, this is a dream come true for me,” said Wardley.
“Fighting for a world title at Portman Road means everything to me. I’ve got a tough opponent in front of me, but that’s what I live for. I’m ready to dig deep, go to battle, and leave it all in the ring – even more so than usual!
“It’s going to be a war, and I can’t wait to give my hometown crowd a spectacle they’ll never forget.”
After several years of discussions and planning, Ipswich Town chairman Mark Ashton said he was delighted to finally be able to host such a big event, and bring a fellow Tractor Boy home.
“Fabio and I have been discussing a Portman Road fight for the best part of nearly four years,” he said.
“So, I’m delighted that we’ve managed to get this fight over the line and give Fabio the opportunity for a homecoming world title fight at Portman Road.
“I’d like to thank Frank Warren and his team, who have all been tremendous throughout the planning process, and we’re all now looking forward to fight night.
“Let’s get this town and county behind one of our own in what is sure to be a thrilling event on our doorstep.”
