🔗 Share this article

England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

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 famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends 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 contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others