Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Boxing Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Vacates Belt

The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

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

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many