Fabio Wardley Expected to Become World Boxing Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes Title

England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk 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 promoter and I could not be more pleased for 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, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention