Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Boxing Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Gives Up Championship

England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many