🔗 Share this article

England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

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

WBO Statement

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

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

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

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

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph 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, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

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

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

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others