Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Boxing Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship

England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world 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"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many