Frazer Clarke will undergo surgery after suffering a fracture to his jaw and cheekbone, following a first-round knockout by Fabio Wardley. This fight was a rematch for the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles, after their initial bout earlier this year.
Clarke was hospitalized after receiving a devastating right hook, which caused a fracture in the upper part of his jaw. Although surgery is required, doctors have indicated that plates will not be necessary, and he will likely be discharged the same day. His recovery is expected to take between six and eight weeks.
For his part, Fabio Wardley showed good sportsmanship by sending his best wishes to Clarke after the fight. After successfully defending his titles, Wardley expressed concern for his rival’s health.
“I always take a prayer before my fight, always ask for me and my opponent to leave and be healthy.” “I want him to go back to his family safe, I wish him all the best,” commented the champion. He also respectfully recalled their first fight, an intense 12-round battle.
Neil Scott, medical director of the British Boxing Board of Control, explained that Frazer Clarke’s injury is rare and extremely painful.
“It’s not common. We don’t see it that often at all.”
“Typically, those kinds of injuries are caused by, it sounds crazy, but bricks and things like this.”
“With the size of the glove, it’s not something we see in boxing. It must take a tremendous amount of power to do that.”
While Clarke recovers, Wardley is already looking toward the future, confident in his ability to face the world’s best. “You’ve seen me do everything. I’m ready for that world stage now,” affirmed Wardley, who is already emerging as one of the top figures in British heavyweight boxing.
? What a performance it was from Fabio Wardley tonight who surpassed domestic level by some distance.
Wish Frazer Clarke a speedy recovery! He will be back and there’s still some great fights for him.#WardleyClarke2 | #BeterbievBivolpic.twitter.com/P7coKjhmlp
— EverythingBoxing (@EverythingBoxi2) October 12, 2024
“I want him to go back to his family safe, I wish him all the best” ?
Massive respect from Fabio Wardley towards Frazer Clarke after their rematch ❤️#BeterbievBivol x #WardleyClarke | #RiyadhSeason pic.twitter.com/lANuKSZM8a
— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) October 12, 2024
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