Britain's Fabio Wardley Expected to Become WBO World Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Relinquishes Title

The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention