🔗 Share this article

Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

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

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, 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 champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention