Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Set to Become WBO World Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship

Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight 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 defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention