Britain's Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Boxing Champion as Usyk Vacates Belt

The UK's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

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

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

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

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention