Fabio Wardley Set to Become WBO World Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Vacates Belt

Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention