Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Boxing Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes Title

Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

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

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark 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 championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention