🔗 Share this article

Britain's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

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

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

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many