Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes Title

England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others