Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Expected to Become WBO World Champion as Usyk Relinquishes Title

England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many