Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Vacates Belt

England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

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

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

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

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention