Fabio Wardley Expected to Become WBO World Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship
England's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt
This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent
Boxing Organization's Position
The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"
Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion
He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger
"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"
"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"
"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"
The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"
Championship History
Usyk won the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times
In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest
New Champion's Path
But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion
The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality
"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"
"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"
"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"
Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts
Coming Challenges
- Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
- Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
- The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
- The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many
