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

The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"England 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 more pleased for Wardley"

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

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many