Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Expected to Become WBO World Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Gives Up Championship

Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

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

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others