Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Expected to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship

Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue recently 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 done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention