Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Vacates Belt
Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title
This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent
Official Announcement
The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"
Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder
He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent
"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"
"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"
"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"
The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"
Title Reign
Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times
In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight
Wardley's Rise
But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline
The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a formality
"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"
"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"
"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"
Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record
What's Next
- Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
- Usyk's decision to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
- The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
- The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many
