Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Relinquishes Title

England's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK 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 happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention