Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Expected to Become World Boxing Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Gives Up Championship

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

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

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

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many