Britain's Fabio Wardley Set to Become WBO World Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship
England's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt
This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent
WBO Statement
The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"
The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion
He originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger
"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"
"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"
"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"
The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"
Title Reign
The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times
In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight
Wardley's Rise
But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September
The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a formality
"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"
"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"
"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"
The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record
What's Next
- The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
- The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
- The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
- The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many