Fabio Wardley Poised to Become WBO World Champion as Usyk Vacates Belt

Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect 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 organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention