Ipswich Town’s Portman Road is no stranger to drama. Over the years, the stadium has hosted countless moments of footballing pride and heartbreak. But on 7 June 2025, the hallowed ground will make history of a different kind when it transforms into a boxing arena for the very first time. Leading the charge is none other than Suffolk’s own Fabio Wardley, who will face Australian heavyweight Justis Huni for the WBA Interim World Title.

It’s a landmark occasion, not just for boxing fans, but for the town itself. The last time Ipswich drew this much national attention, it involved a controversial offside decision and a tray of flying chips. This, however, is a far more refined affair, albeit one that promises just as many bruises.

Fabio Wardley, currently unbeaten and holding the British and Commonwealth titles, has quickly become a name to watch in British boxing. Known for his footwork, power, and local loyalty, he represents the kind of hometown pride that Ipswich holds dear. The bout at Portman Road marks a significant leap in his career, with the WBA belt now within reach.

The build-up to the fight has inevitably sparked chatter beyond the ring. On different betting sites UK, Wardley’s average odds are currently priced as the 4/6 favourite, with Huni at 5/4, figures that have become talking points in barbershops and local pubs alike. From round-by-round predictions to obscure wagering options, the odds seem to shift with every bit of training footage released. Whether it’s genuine interest or just a new excuse to brush up on boxing jargon, Suffolk’s more statistically-minded residents are paying attention.

A Local Lad on the Big Stage

Born and raised in Ipswich, Fabio Wardley’s rise through the ranks has been anything but conventional. Without an amateur background, he took the professional route under the guidance of Dillian Whyte, who saw raw potential in the young Suffolk native. That gamble paid off. Now 30, Wardley has built a record of 17 wins with 16 knockouts, a stat line that speaks louder than any hype could.

His opponent, Justis Huni, brings his own pedigree. The Australian heavyweight boasts a slick style, strong technical fundamentals, and a reputation for endurance. At just 26, Huni is regarded as one of the top up-and-coming talents in the division. This won’t be an easy match for either fighter, but it’s precisely that competitive edge that’s drawing so much anticipation.

The significance of hosting a bout of this magnitude at Portman Road hasn’t been lost on locals either. While London’s O2 Arena or Manchester’s AO Arena might usually be the go-to for such fights, staging the event in Ipswich is a statement: the provinces matter. It’s also a welcome boost for the town’s economy, with local hotels reporting early bookings and pubs planning extended opening hours.

The Transformation of Portman Road

Converting a football pitch into a boxing venue is no small feat. Event organisers have confirmed that a purpose-built ring will be constructed over the halfway line, surrounded by tiered seating and lighting rigs that would make even Wembley jealous. The stadium’s usual 30,000 capacity will be slightly reduced to accommodate the configuration, but the atmosphere promises to be electric.

Security, medical teams, hospitality, every aspect of the event is being treated with the same precision you’d expect at a major London venue. And given Wardley’s pull, tickets are expected to sell out well in advance. It’s not every day that your hometown produces a heavyweight title contender fighting on your doorstep.

More Than Just a Fight

Wardley’s bout isn’t just about silverware or career milestones. For Ipswich, it’s about community, identity, and proving that world-class events don’t have to be confined to the M25 corridor. The fact that the main event features a local fighter only amplifies that sentiment. There’s a sense of shared ownership here, the idea that everyone in Suffolk has played a small part in Wardley’s rise.

On the night, the undercard will also feature a mix of domestic prospects and regional talent, giving fans a full evening of action. It’s likely that many attending will be watching live boxing for the first time, something Wardley has acknowledged as part of what makes the night so special.

Meanwhile, the sport’s growing popularity across digital platforms means the fight will be streamed live via pay-per-view, with additional coverage on national networks. Even those who can’t secure a seat in the stadium will be able to follow every jab, uppercut and bell-ring in real time.

A Night to Remember

No matter the outcome, 7 June promises to be a landmark date in Ipswich’s sporting history. For a club stadium better known for chants and football boots, the thud of gloves and the roar of a boxing crowd will bring something entirely new. It’s a celebration of sport, grit, and local pride, and for those lucky enough to be there, it’s a once-in-a-generation event.

As the final preparations are made and Portman Road readies itself for an evening under the lights, one thing is certain: Suffolk’s not just showing up. It’s centre stage.