🔗 Share this article

England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others